Three things learned from Everton against Manchester City
Everton were well and truly humbled as they lost 3-0 at the hands of Manchester City at the Etihad on Sunday.
The Toffees had to dig in and fight, and that was exactly what they did, and though they didn’t create much, they defended well.
However, it wasn’t enough, and a fantastic goal from Raheem Sterling saw City take the lead, and then a wonder strike from Rodri proved to be the difference. Bernardo Silva added a late third.
Here are the three things we learned from the game.
Gordon has to start every match.
There will be other games in which Anthony Gordon sees more of the ball, but he was a threat whenever he got the ball.
He drove forward and offered an outlet whenever he could.
However, he also put in a huge shift defensively and helped out Lucas Digne and Seamus Coleman.
The Toffees have problems all over the pitch, but Gordon is a shining spark at the moment.
The quicker Doucoure is back, the better.
The Toffees lined up with two in midfield as they did against Manchester United not that long ago.
However, the difference was in that game; they had Abdoulaye Doucoure pushing forward and winning the ball high up the field.
Today, they didn’t have him, and though they secured a 0-0 draw, Fabian Delph was overwhelmed and looked lost at times.
They have other players missing, but Doucoure is the one they need back.
Benitez’s selection issues pile up.
Heading into the Brentford game next week, Everton’s injury problems appear to have become worse.
Demarai Gray had started the game well for the Toffees, but he only lasted 17 minutes until he went off with what appeared to be a groin injury.
Richarlison then picked up a yellow card meaning that he will be suspended for that game against the Bees.
So, Benitez will definitely be without the Brazilian next week, and it looks like he will be without Gray.
He must be wondering when his luck will change.
In other Everton news, Gary Neville was stunned by a moment involving Gordon in the first half.
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