The Athletic journalist shares if Andros Townsend was injured after early sub in Everton win v Norwich
Everton returned to winning ways in the Premier League after beating Norwich City 2-0 on Saturday at Goodison Park.
Andros Townsend was superb during the game once again and scored the opening goal from a spot-kick. Abdoulaye Doucoure added another to seal all three points for the Toffees.
Townsend, arguably Everton’s best player on the pitch, was taken off by Rafael Benitez in the 76th minute, and he was replaced by Anthony Gordon.
Patrick Boyland of The Athletic has reported that Townsend went straight down the tunnel where he was joined by the medical team.
Much to the relief of the Everton fans, the winger wasn’t injured. He ran out of steam, and Benitez subbed him as he felt fresh legs were required at that stage.
“We were talking about needing fresh legs and who could be most tired,” Benitez said, as quoted by The Atheltic.
“He made a run of 30 metres following a player so that was very clear. When I asked him at the end, he told me, ‘Yes, I was really tired’. It’s the way to protect your players.”
Townsend – the new cult hero.
Eyebrows were raised when the 30-year-old winger was signed by Benitez on a free transfer this summer. Many had thought that he was as good as finished after his spell at Crystal Palace came to an end.
However, he has quickly become a popular figure among the fans after a fantastic start at his new club. Townsend has managed four goals and three assists in all competitions so far, but his importance to the side goes beyond that.
Townsend is exactly what Benitez demands from his wingers. James Rodriguez, an expensive import under Carlo Ancelotti, was allowed to leave last week, as he didn’t feature in Benitez’s plans.
More than creativity, it’s the overall industry and impact on the game that matters for Benitez, and the likes of Townsend and Demarai Gray are providing that energy.
Townsend has the quality to play in all three positions upfront but his vivacious energy and relentless industry have really made a big difference.
In other Everton news, ‘Delightful’ – Micah Richards blown away by one Toffees star v Norwich live on MOTD
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