Marcus Bent claims Keane is in danger of losing Everton place
Former Everton forward Marcus Bent believes Michael Keane must step his game up or risk being replaced at Goodison Park.
The England international has been a regular starter for Carlo Ancelotti this season, missing just two games in the Premier League, having been left out of the squad against Arsenal on Friday.
Keane and Mason Holgate had combined to cause Everton a number of defensive issues in their game against Tottenham a week prior, with Spurs scoring twice directly from defensive errors.
Speaking to Football FanCast, Bent explained that should Keane fail to improve his form for the Blues he could find himself replaced in Ancelotti’s starting line-up.
Talking about Everton’s defensive options, Bent said: “You’ve got (Mason) Holgate, (Yerry) Mina and (Ben) Godfrey.
“He’s (Keane) good enough, but if he keeps making mistakes and isn’t consistent then those players will come in and take his place.
“We’ve got a good squad of young players and experienced, too.”
Tough competition
Should Michael Keane find himself out of Everton’s team at any point it is testament to the strength of competition that the club have generated.
Holgate, Godfrey, Keane and Mina are all excellent on their day, but none are without fault, and Keane’s momentary blip in form will most likely be put behind him in no time.
That said, in the long run Everton would probably prefer to field their younger options, Holgate and Godfrey, as they’re more likely to still be playing regularly for the club in five years time.
Everton are blessed currently to have so many options to choose from, because that certainly hasn’t always been the case, and hopefully Keane will only improve if he finds himself out of the starting line-up.
Competition is good for improving players because it forces them to work harder, and Everton could certainly seek to benefit if their four centre-backs constantly strive to improve and be better.
In other Everton news, Report: Everton demand club-record fee for ‘Phenomenal’ player this summer.
Be sure to follow Goodison News on Facebook and Twitter for 24/7 updates on Everton and more exclusive interviews with Kevin Campbell.