Everton boss Sean Dyche made just one change for his side’s trip to Brentford – James Garner coming in for Arnaut Danjuma – and it is a selection decision that certainly paid off.
In fact, it would not be too hyperbolic to suggest that it is one of the best calls Dyche has made in his time in charge at Goodison Park.
Garner may prefer playing in the middle, but he was brought back into the XI on the right-hand side of midfield against Brentford on Saturday [23 September] and was easily the Toffees’ best performer in their 3-1 win.
Only James Tarkowski (surprise) had more “key passes” than those four, which included the assist for Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s goal to seal the three points.
His three tackles on the defensive side of the ball were second only to Amadou Onana’s six in a superb all-around performance from the Manchester United academy product.
Although Dyche may have sacrificed some offensive flare by beginning without players like Danjuma and Calvert-Lewin, the balance Garner provided to the team was undoubtedly the most important element in a decisive victory for the visitors.
Garner must now be one of the first names on Dyche’s team sheet with a crucial home match against Luton Town coming up at Goodison Park next weekend after an EFL Cup match with Aston Villa in the middle of the week.
