Sky Sports pundit amazed as Conor Coady displays surprise abilities in Everton win v Southampton
Garry Birtles was blown away by Conor Coady’s finishing ability when the Everton defender scored his first for the club against Southampton.
Having had a goal in the Merseyside derby ruled out for a questionable interpretation of the offside rule, the on-loan Wolves man did open his account on the south coast, when he equalised for the Toffees minutes after they had gone behind in the second half.
Amadou Onana rose high at the back post to nod down a free kick which had been swung in deep, and the centre-back produced a lovely first-time finish to slot it away, sparking a comeback which was completed soon after via Dwight McNeil’s smashed finish, to the amazement Sky Sports pundit Birtles.
Speaking on the live world feed match commentary on Saturday (1 October, 4.08pm) an audibly surprised Birtles said: “I tell you what, that’s a striker’s finish by the way. This is a wonderful finish, never hesitates. Brilliant header back and it looks an easy tap in, but I’ll tell you what it’s easy to get that wrong.
“That comes at him quickly, and he finishes like a quality striker.”
Danger man
Dominic Calvert-Lewin wasn’t risked in the squad by Frank Lampard, and Anthony Gordon dropped to the bench after an illness.
Even the previous match-winner Neal Maupay was struggling to get in the game at St. Mary’s, but it was no matter as Coady popped up to score a crucial goal.
His delighted celebration against Liverpool on 3 September was wiped out after a VAR review, but there was no such issue this time.
The back four, with Nathan Patterson injured and captain Seamus Coleman making his first Premier League appearance of the season, looked less assured than normal.
Their commitment was unquestionable as all threw themselves in front of numerous shots, but they frequently gave the Saints attackers too much space.
A few sloppy errors put them under pressure at the back, but once again this year they withstood most of it, and with his goal on top Coady is proving to be one of the most effective signings of the season at Everton.
He must surely be made a permanent addition when the opportunity arises, as Goodison News pundit Kevin Campbell has warned of fan riots if not.