Andy Hinchcliffe blown away by ‘sensational’ Asmir Begovic moment in Everton v Aston Villa
Andy Hinchcliffe was effusive in his praise for stand-in Everton goalkeeper Asmir Begovic after a first-half save against Aston Villa on Saturday.
Begovic, 34, made his Premier League debut for Everton at Villa Park after Jordan Pickford was ruled out of the clash.
The Bosnian was immediately forced into action as Dean Smith’s side set about scoring.
However, Villa centre-back Tyrone Mings was to be denied by the Blues man.
“It’s a sensational piece of goalkeeping,” ex-Everton defender Hinchcliffe said on live commentary duties for Sky Sports.
“It’s a sensational right-hand from Begovic to keep it out, a strong hand as well because it could have easily rolled over him and in.
“He’d have been under pressure, Begovic, with no Pickford today, but that’s a sensational stop.”
Hinchcliffe added: “It’s brilliant reactions.”
Able deputy
The conclusion of Robin Olsen’s loan from Roma meant Everton were in the market for a new number two goalkeeper in the summer.
Joao Virginia was third-choice last season and may have hoped to step up, but Rafa Benitez was obviously keen to recruit a more experienced option, and the 21-year-old was sent on loan to Sporting Lisbon.
He certainly got that in Begovic, a Premier League winner with over 250 appearances in the competition.
He’s not faded into obscurity, either, as he was named in the 2020/21 Championship Team of the Season for Bournemouth before swapping the south-coast for Merseyside.
Despite his steady start to Premier League life for Everton, Benitez will be desperate to have Pickford back as soon as possible as he bids to keep up the Blues’ unbeaten start to the 2021/22 campaign.
In other Everton news, Blues player reacts after Aston Villa star issues written apology.
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