Dwight McNeil shares emotional Instagram message after scoring first Everton goal v Southampton
Dwight McNeil scored his first Everton goal since arriving from Burnley in the summer, with his strike helping the Toffees to a 2-1 win over Southampton.
McNeil scored to complete Everton’s comeback against the Saints, with Conor Coady scoring two minutes prior to level the game after Joe Aribo’s opener.
The 22-year-old didn’t have an immediate impact after signing for Everton, but he’s now starting to show glimpses of his talent, and he took to Instagram to explain the hard work he’s put in this season.
McNeil’s Instagram post read: “What a feeling. My first Prem goal for the Toffees, absolutely buzzing.
“The last few months have been hard both physically and mentally, I have pushed myself to improve and build my confidence and I hope that showed to the fans today. Back to back wins.”
Finding form
It’s true that McNeil didn’t have an instant impact at Goodison following his £20million move in the summer, but it was never through a lack of trying.
McNeil has always put 100% into his performances and been a huge part of Everton’s defensive efforts through his pressing and work rate in the final third.
It’s his relentless work rate and effort that has caught Lampard’s eye and earned him a frequent spot as a starter.
He was handed a spot in the starting XI, ahead of Anthony Gordon, on Saturday and justified the decision completely by contributing both offensively and defensively for the side.
With his first goal now under his belt and the team building momentum, hopefully, McNeil settles down at the club and starts to produce consistent performances like the one seen against Southampton.
He’s certainly got the ability and the right mindset, and he’s clearly got the backing of Lampard.