‘Not had the credit’: Townsend feels one star is underrated outside Everton

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Andros Townsend believes Salomon Rondon has ‘not had the credit’ he deserves outside of Everton after scoring twice against Boreham Wood in the FA Cup, via the Toffees’ website.

Both forwards moved to Merseyside last summer as former boss Rafa Benitez operated on a shoe-string budget. The Spaniard spent just £1.6m to improve the squad Carlo Ancelotti had assembled, with all funds spent used to acquire Demarai Gray plus four free transfers.

Rondon initially struggled to get going at Goodison Park after his deadline day arrival from Chinese outfit Dalian Pro. The 32-year-old had not played any minutes since May and was rushed into action once Dominic Calvert-Lewin sustained his long-term quadriceps injury.

Rondon’s struggles getting back up to speed in the Premier League sparked criticism for his performances under Benitez. Michael Ball lambasted the Venezuelan for failing to offer the Blues a focal point. Rondon also continually stunned Paul Merson that he plays for Everton.

Townsend feels Rondon’s ‘not had the credit’ he merits outside of Everton

Townsend came to Rondon’s defence after the forward scored Everton’s two goals to beat Boreham Wood in the FA Cup. The 85-cap striker’s brace moved him on to just three goals in 17 games, starting 13, across all competitions so far this term. He is yet to offer an assist.

Yet despite his issues under Benitez and a lack of minutes under Frank Lampard, with the FA Cup tie Rondon’s second outing under the now-Everton boss so far, Townsend believes those outside of Goodison potentially do not realise all that he offers on and off the pitch.

“Anyone who has played with Salomon for six-months and trained with him on a daily basis knows he always gives his all,” Townsend stated. “He fights for every ball, and he’s been a credit to himself.  Maybe he’s not had the credit on the outside [of the club].

“But we fully appreciate him and we know, when he plays, we have got a good outlet – and he proved that tonight. Whenever he gets the opportunity again, hopefully, he can keep slotting them away.”