‘Let’s have it right’ – Exclusive: Campbell issues strong Olsen defence after Everton mistakes
We’re delighted to welcome former Everton striker Kevin Campbell as our exclusive columnist. Each week the former Toffees captain will be giving his views on the biggest talking points at Goodison Park…
Kevin Campbell believes that Robin Olsen can still challenge Jordan Pickford for the Everton number one jersey despite recent mistakes.
In the 3-3 draw with Manchester United, Olsen lost his footing and conceded a very soft Scott McTominay header that gave the Red Devils a second-half lead.
This raised questions about his future once Pickford returns from injury but the former Blues captain doesn’t believe that Olsen has blown his chance.
Speaking to Goodison News Campbell said, “I don’t think that he’s blown his chance, it was just a mistake.
“The number one [Pickford] has made many mistakes so I don’t think Olsen is going to be rolled over for that one.
“Ancelotti wants consistency and Olsen has been consistent, let’s have it right. But that’s a mistake where he lost his footing, you don’t want to see it.
“He didn’t make another mistake after that but it cost a goal.”
Further questions will be asked of Olsen following Wednesday’s FA Cup win over Tottenham as conceding four goals at home in extremely concerning.
The 31-year-old should have claimed an early corner that gave Spurs the lead and while he did make some important stops on Wednesday night, he never looked fully comfortable.
That’s not to say that Pickford would’ve done any better, we all saw how poor he was just before he picked up his injury.
In fairness to Olsen, he was brilliant against Leeds and he hasn’t made as many shockers as our usual keeper so it would be harsh to drop him when Pickford returns.
But we feel that the England keeper will be handed an immediate return once he does recover from this knock, which would be a shame.
In other Everton news, we are reportedly keeping an eye on a young Aston Villa star.