Ben Grounds highlights how important Abdoulaye Doucoure is to Everton
Sky Sports journalist Ben Grounds has revealed just how important Abdoulaye Doucoure is to Everton.
Writing on his personal Twitter account, Grounds showed five key statistics highlighting the Frenchman’s role for the Toffees after it was confirmed that he would be out for a significant period of time [Everton official website].
The stats show that Doucoure has won the most duels, won back possession the most, and has the best passing accuracy in the squad this season, suggesting they are going to miss him.
Bad news for the Toffees.
Doucoure had looked like a different beast this season under Rafael Benitez, and these statistics show that to be the case.
However, it is not just defensively he has thrived as going forward; he has scored two goals and provided four assists, which is a strong record.
So, it remains to be seen just how Benitez replaces the drive and energy that Doucoure brought to this Everton side, but he is going to have to come up with something.
The likes of Tom Davies and Jean-Philippe Gbamin have to see this as their opportunity to make an impact and win a regular starting spot, but it remains to be seen if either of them can replace Doucoure.
These statistics just highlight how important he has been for the Toffees this season, and they are going to miss him badly.
However, they have managed without the likes of Richarlison and Dominic Calvert-Lewin, so it is possible, but it is going to be hard.
In other Everton news, the club have provided an update on Doucoure’s injury.
Be sure to follow Goodison News on Facebook and Twitter for 24/7 updates on Everton and more exclusive interviews with Kevin Campbell.