These three Everton players will be looking for fairer opportunities under the new manager.
There have been wholesale changes at Everton over the last six months, with Ronald Koeman embarking on a summer spending spree before being sacked following a disastrous start to the season.
Here are three underused players who have been lost in the chaos at Goodison Park…
Ademola Lookman
There was plenty of premature fanfare when the 20-year-old forward scored on his Toffees debut – a 4-0 victory over Manchester City last January – but he has since had very few opportunities to enhance his reputation.
Five of Lookman’s nine appearances this season have been in Everton’s doomed Europa League campaign, with his Premier League exposure limited to two outings off the bench. The Toffees are badly short of pace and excitement in attack and the former Charlton Athletic youngster should at least be used more frequently as a substitute.
Tom Davies
The 19-year-old has started David Unsworth’s two Premier League games in charge, but was previously in and out of the side under Koeman, who showed too much patience with underperforming senior players.
Everton academy graduate Davies should be a nailed-on starter in Everton’s midfield, regardless of who the new manager is. Just look at what a leap of faith has done for Harry Winks at Tottenham Hotspur. Davies arguably has a bit more about him than the new England international and can kick on rapidly if given the platform.
Oumar Niasse
Niasse has nearly half of Everton’s top-flight goal total for the season, and yet has only started twice. Prior to the 3-2 comeback victory over Watford, he and Wayne Rooney were the only Toffees on a league scoresheet this term.
The Senegalese striker is not going to be the long-term replacement for Romelu Lukaku, but he is Everton’s best answer in the meantime. With Koeman gone, his slate should be wiped clean and more chances should follow.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
