Osman claims loaned-out Everton ace lacked 'forward quality', heaps praise on FA Cup display

Leon Osman has claimed that loaned-out Everton midfielder Mo Besic lacked quality going forward during their time together at Goodison Park.

The Toffees icon couldn't help but shower the Bosnian international for his display for Sheffield United against Millwall on Saturday afternoon.

Chris Wilder's men progressed with a 2-0 victory, with Besic hitting an unstoppable drive into the top corner at the New Den.

Osman recalled his time in Merseyside with Besic as his teammate, claiming that he never showed that sort of quality back in his time.

"I did [play with Besic at Everton] and he was never showing anything like that or qualities like that," Osman told Final Score.

"He's a lovely fella. Works hard and a good midfielder. But he's more of a defensive player. That kind of forward quality by putting the ball into the top corner from 25 yards certainly wasn't something he was showing too often."

There are question marks surrounding whether or not Besic will ever make it under Carlo Ancelotti.

Chris Wilder has only handed two starts to the 27-year-old at Brammall Lane, and without the opportunity to consistently shine in Yorkshire - Everton won't be seeing what they're potentially missing.

Besic has only averaged 0.4 shots on goal this season [WhoScored], and like Osman said he hasn't highlighted his attacking qualities enough. If he can add that to his game, he may catch the eye of Ancelotti and get another chance.

In other Everton news, ‘Unbelievable’ – Unsworth heaps praise on ‘fantastic’ Everton starlet after difficult spell