Stan Collymore shares strong Everton view after draw v Liverpool
Stan Collymore has suggested that Everton fans will be satisfied if the Toffees can build on their strong performance against Liverpool in the Merseyside derby.
The Toffees drew 0-0 against Jurgen Klopp’s side in their last game, and Collymore is impressed with what he saw at Goodison Park.
Writing his column for The Sunday Post (11 September, page 60), the Toffees can expect a good season if they can maintain the same level of performance throughout the season.
“It used to be the early rounds of the League Cup for me, but good performances in derbies can set off your season, too,” wrote Collymore for The Sunday People.
“So the fact Everton showed they were combative enough and strong enough, both physically and mentally, to go toe-totoe with Liverpool is a good platform for them.
“If the Blues can maintain the same level of competitiveness between now and May as they showed in that entertaining 0-0 draw, then all Evertonians and manager Frank Lampard (left) will be satisfied.”
Positive
The Toffees are yet to pick up their first win of the season, but the recent signs are encouraging.
They drew their last four games in the Premier League, including the 0-0 draw against Liverpool. The confidence in the side is building gradually.
This has been a huge transfer window for the club. In the summer, they lost a key player in Richarlison, who joined Tottenham Hotspur.
But they replaced him with quality players in almost every position, and the squad is strong now.
The midfield has been bolstered by the addition of Idrissa Gueye and Dwight McNeil, while the Toffees have finally signed a striker, with Neal Maupay joining from Brighton.
In defence, both Conor Coady and James Tarkowski have been very impressive. One player who has caught attention is young Nathan Patterson.
The 20-year-old has been outstanding this season, and he has shown great qualities against Liverpool, earning rave reviews from Lampard and pundits alike.