‘Just realised’ – Calvert-Lewin makes admission about ‘athletic’ Everton teammate
Everton striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin described his new teammate Ben Godfrey as “rapid” when asked who would win a race in the current squad.
Godfrey arrived at Goodison Park from Norwich City during the summer transfer window for a fee of £24.75 million (via Transfermarkt).
The defender has made four appearances for Carlo Ancelotti’s side in the Premier League so far, starting in a back three against Leeds United on Saturday.
Asked who would win a running race in the current Everton squad, Calvert-Lewin named Godfrey alongside himself, Jarrad Branthwaite and Richarlison as the contenders.
“The race would be, myself, Ben Godfrey,” he said (via Sky Sports).
“No, I have just realised he is rapid. He’s pretty fast. I think even off the mark he is pretty quick and athletic. But I think if it was a flat out race, 100-meter race, you would have me, Ben, probably Jarrad Branthwaite and I probably have to throw Richie [Richarlison] in there. I think he would be in there. He has got to be.”
Godfrey started his career as a midfielder at York City before being converted into a centre-back at Norwich City by Daniel Farke.
However, he still very much exhibits many of the skills of a central midfielder, including passing range, close control and impressive athleticism.
The 22-year-old is yet to make a huge impact at Goodison Park and even came in for some criticism from fans for his role in allowing Raphinha to score Leeds’ winner.
Settling into a rather unstable Everton backline is a tough challenge for a young player though and Ancelotti will likely still be viewing him as someone that can improve over time.
If Holgate, Keane and Godfrey can form a partnership then the Toffees have the making of a promising future in defence, it may just take time for things to play out.
In other Everton news, here are three things we learned from the Toffees’ 1-0 defeat to Leeds United