Everton’s Oumar Niasse is adamant that, given time, he can form a fruitful striking partnership with ex-Gunner Theo Walcott next term.
The Senegalese striker caused problems for West Ham’s defence on Saturday opposite Theo Walcott, although Everton would eventually suffer defeat on the final day of the domestic season.
The 28-year-old struck his eighth goal in 10 starts for Everton – and just 22 appearances in the Premier League – whilst creating two clear openings for his strike partner in his brief 30 minute appearance at the London Stadium. Niasse could have caused further problems for West Ham on the day also, registering an impressive five of seven shots on target.
The Everton duo proved deadly when first deployed together against West Brom Albion back in January, when Walcott’s cushioned header enabled Niasse to rifle home a vicious strike levelling the score-line, and fans became excited about a potential partnership. However, it didn’t last.
There’s a feeling around Goodison Park that manager Sam Allardyce may have seriously missed a trick this season, having put the two out together as few as four times, but Niasse is hoping he and Walcott will have time to develop their blossoming partnership next term (quotes via EvertonTV), whether it be under the current manager’s tenure, or someone else’s.
“As a striker, I can hold the ball with my power and he can make the run in behind and I can make the runs as well. When I am coming with the ball, you see him working and moving.
“If you can play with someone running beyond you, it creates more space for you to come back or run to the other side.”
Cenk Tosun will likely feature as the main Everton striker next season, but perhaps Niasse and Walcott can give the manager something to think about next time they get the opportunity to play together.
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