Alan Shearer hails Everton midfielder Allan after crucial role in 1-0 win v West Ham
Alan Shearer hailed Everton star Allan after his tenacious display against West Ham on Sunday afternoon helped to earn his side a vital 1-0 win.
The Blues travelled down to East London knowing three points was crucial to reigniting their European hopes after a run of just one victory in seven Premier League outings.
Dominic Calvert-Lewin was the matchwinner with his fantastic finish in the first half but speaking on BBC Match of the Day 2 [09/05/21], Shearer was quick to point out the qualities of Allan in the Everton engine room.
“That guy there Allan was magnificent in giving them the protection that they needed at times, and that happened so many times during the game,” he said.
“He was right in front of that back four, clearing up everything, and they were superb and had a determination about them.”
Back to his best
Allan is a snarling presence in the middle of midfield and when he’s on top form we look a completely different outfit.
He was a key signing for Carlo Ancelotti last summer with the Brazilian a favourite of the Italian tactician during their time at Serie A side Napoli.
Allan made an instant impact on Merseyside as he helped to drive us to the top of the standings, but he suffered an injury in December and didn’t make his return until March.
The 30-year-old was guilty of being slightly sluggish in possession when he came back into the side, something which can be expected after such a long time on the sidelines.
But he looked back to his imperious best at the London Stadium on Sunday as he and Tom Davies bullied the West Ham midfield, forming an impenetrable shield around the Blues defence.
Calvert-Lewin will take most of the plaudits for his goal but the role of Allan snapping into tackles and surging forwards should not be underestimated.
In other Everton news, Blues eye ‘Transformed’ PL dribbling sensation, Ancelotti is a ‘big fan’.
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