Three aspects from the West Ham United match that Everton should take note of as Nathan Patterson blows an opportunity
Sunday’s (October 29) victory over West Ham gave Everton a vital three points away from East London.
The Toffees put up a valiant display and won 1-0 at the London Stadium thanks to a goal from Dominic Calvert-Lewin in the second half.
Although it wasn’t a particularly good game, Sean Dyche will be happy with his team’s ability to exercise self-control and minimize the Hammers’ future offensive threats.
Goodison News outlines three key takeaways from Everton’s victory over West Ham here.
Patterson could end up as the backup plan.
After Ashley Young was sent off against Liverpool last week, Nathan Patterson was given the opportunity to make an impression against the Hammers.
The right-back was fortunate that the hosts were unable to capitalize on his errors, as he was beaten a few times in the first half despite his lackluster play.
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Even though the 22-year-old played better in the second half, he wasn’t terrific and will probably lose his spot once Young is cleared to play again after recently taking a backseat to the more seasoned player.
This implies that if captain Seamus Coleman returns to the team, the Scotland international might very well be the third option at right-back.
Need to acquire a dynamic midfield player
Abdoulaye Doucoure should be able to play offensive midfield, but he doesn’t seem to fit in that position for the Everton club.
The Mali international is an eager runner, but he is more of a force to be reckoned with than a creative force because he does not understand the position.
The Toffees could do with a naturally creative number 10, who can take advantage of the mayhem created by the forward and make things happen centrally, in order to completely capitalize on the threats presented by Calvert-Lewin in the air.
The 30-year-old was mainly anonymous throughout the afternoon, although he did do a good job of latching onto one of the striker’s flick-ons in the second half. However, his lack of calmness prevented him from beating Alphonse Areola with his effort.
The Blues should definitely consider adding an offensive midfielder who can offer something fresh to the team.
Branthwaite will become well-known.
In addition to the many outstanding performances he has given this season since breaking into the team, Jarrad Branthwaite delivered yet another outstanding effort.
The strong Michail Antonio offered some threats during the afternoon, but the 21-year-old completely neutralized them—something that several of the top defenders in the Premier League have had trouble with lately.
Another performance that will have drawn the attention of any prospective employers, since interest in signing him will only grow the more shows he puts in.
The center back’s playing time isn’t going to be threatened anytime soon, and given his recent success while wearing a Blues shirt, it’s difficult to imagine him not reaching the highest levels.
