Paul Merson is unsure how far Rafael Benitez can take Everton this season
Paul Merson believes Rafael Benitez has brought honest and hard-working players to Everton but he isn’t sure how far he can take them.
Speaking to Sky Sports News after the transfer window closed, the Sky Sports pundit revealed his thoughts on Demarai Gray, Andros Townsend, and Salomon Rondon.
However, he is unsure if the Spaniard can take the Toffees onto the next level and believes that the club will be happy with a top-eight finish and a cup run [Sky Sports News 01/09/2021 via the Liverpool Echo].
Merson said: “They’re hard-working players he’s brought in where you pick the team, tell them what to do, and they [Benitez and staff] sit on the bench, and you don’t have to get up every two minutes saying get back.
“They’re good professionals; they know their position inside out. I think they’re good signings; how far can they take them?
“I don’t know, I mean top eight and hopefully get a good cup run; that’s what Everton want. Honest players, good signings and not much money spent.”
How will Everton do under Benitez?
The Toffees spent very little during the transfer window, but they still managed to bring in four first-team players and have started the season well.
Gray has been excellent so far and has scored two goals in his first three league games, while the Toffees have seven points from nine.
So a strong start, and Rondon should provide the ideal backup for Dominic Calvert-Lewin and has worked closely with Benitez before.
Given the money spent, we actually agree with Merson and believe that a top-eight finish and a cup run would be a good first season and provides Benitez with the perfect ground to build off.
Everything has looked good so far, so long may that continue.
In other Everton news, Simon Jordan has ripped into the Toffees’ board.
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