By Sam Stone

19th Mar, 2023 | 2:10pm

Dion Dublin blown away by 'absolutely brilliant' Ellis Simms footage in Everton draw v Chelsea

Dion Dublin was blown away by Ellis Simms after the Everton striker secured a point for Sean Dyche’s side against Chelsea on Saturday evening (18 March).

The Toffees came from behind twice to fight their way to a hard-earned 2-2 draw at Stamford Bridge and move two points clear of the relegation zone.

Simms was the hero with an 89th-minuted equaliser and Dublin was full of praise for the 22-year-old forward.

“When he comes on he’s thinking just to affect the game as much as he can, but he does more than that,” said Dublin (Match of the Day, 48m 29s, 18 March).

“The position he takes up is absolutely brilliant. He thinks ‘I’ve got him here’ and it’s the direct nature of his run.

“He doesn’t do anything special, there’s not a trick. He just goes out the eye line and runs in a straight line, uses his strength and backs himself.

Deserves a shot

Simms has potentially played his way into starting contention after his heroics at Stamford Bridge. Kalidou Koulibaly, who has been one of Europe’s standout defenders in recent years, was left looking like a non-league player by the Everton man.

Considering Neal Maupay’s poor form and Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s ridiculous injury record, Simms could well be the best striking option Dyche has to call upon. He’s quick, physical, and clever in and around the box. Furthermore, Demarai Gray was basically operating in the centre-forward role at Stamford Bridge.

A focal point is required and Simms is Dyche’s best option at present. The former Burnley boss will be absolutely delighted with the point in West London. Chelsea were playing some impressive stuff and will be extremely disappointing not to have picked up all three points.

Everton’s grit and ability to hold on when just one goal behind was commendable. It shows the progress which has been made since the Toffees’ last trip to the capital when they were dismantled 4-0 by Arsenal.