James McFadden raves about Jordan Pickford in Everton v Aston Villa
James McFadden has showered praise on Jordan Pickford after he made a brilliant save in the first half during Everton v Aston Villa.
Under Duncan Ferguson, the Toffees played with more energy and gusto but they lacked the final quality.
Both sides failed to make enough clear-cut chances, but Villa made an attempt on goal which Pickford saved brilliantly.
McFadden said on BBC Radio 5 Live: “Jordan Pickford came up with a good save there, then Everton showed the intent to get up the other end.
“It looks like they have been freed the players. It was more defensive-minded under Rafa Benitez. I don’t think there was much fun involved, but you can see they have got that energy now.”
Lacking quality
In the 13th minute of the game, Villa created a fantastic chance as Emiliano Buendia broke forward.
The Argentine hold off challenges before firing a low effort to which Pickford had to dive across to push the ball away.
It was a routine save in the end, and Pickford made it easy. Soon after, Everton responded with a sharp counter-attack.
Yerry Mina and Ben Godfrey looked solid at the back, while Abdoulaye Doucoure impressed.
Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Richarlison although making some good runs, they gave the impression that they are still short of full fitness.
The lack of cutting edge was clear, and the inability to create chances continues to be a real worry at Goodison Park.
In other Everton news, Steven Gerrard has suggested that he was surprised to see Rafa Benitez taking the Everton job.
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