Tim Howard blown away by Asmir Begovic at Florida Cup
Everton got their hands on their first trophy under Rafa Benitez overnight, beating Millionaires to lift the Florida Cup.
Of course, it is only pre-season, but it will have been a brilliant lift for the players to get that winning feeling ahead of the Premier League.
Asmir Begovic was the hero for the Toffees, scoring his own and then saving the decisive kick in the penalty shootout.
Tim Howard was watching the action closely back in the USA, and reacted to the action instantly after the clash finished.
Writing on his personal Twitter account, the Toffees legend was blown away by Begovic and sent him a two-word message.
“Casual mate,” he wrote.
Perfect.
Benitez will have been delighted with the impact made by Begovic already for the Toffees after his move was complete last week.
The Bosnian is clearly back-up for Jordan Pickford, who will be guaranteed to start once the Premier League, but having competent replacements is critical.
It is an area we have struggled with in recent years, and possibly ever since Howard actually left Goodison Park all those years ago.
To get the seal of approval from the big American will leave Begovic buzzing, and he has already left a big impression on everyone at the club.
There were clearly some signs of rustiness throughout the squad, but Begovic and Demarai Gray settling in so quickly are huge positives to take.
Benitez will take time to get it right, and these signings may not feel huge, but squad depth is something we have been lacking for years.
Add a couple of big names to this group, and we could all be left laughing this time in nine months – fingers crossed all signings are this effective.
In other Everton news, Pundit View: ‘Very good’ player won’t be a let-down with Toffees transfer agreed
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