Pundit gushes over Everton striker Ellis Simms after goal v Chelsea
Michael Ball admits that he is delighted for Everton striker Ellis Simms to bag his first goal in the Premier League in the 2-2 draw v Chelsea.
The Toffees travelled to Stamford Bridge on Saturday, 18 March, and secured a point courtesy of a late goal via the 22-year-old who made headlines for turning Kalidou Koulibaly en route to finding the back of the net.
Ball believes that Simms will have been frustrated at the long wait to get into the Everton first team.
He told the Liverpool Echo, “Everton’s late equaliser at Chelsea was a brilliant moment for Ellis Simms, I’m absolutely made up for him to get his first Premier League goal.
Given his age, he’ll have been really frustrated trying to break into the first team and after being sent out on loan a few times he’s come back to the club and probably hasn’t had the number of minutes that he’d have been hoping for.”
Making his mark
Simms has been given a chance by Sean Dyche after coming back from loan and he’s doing a very good job at justifying that decision.
He may not be someone like Dominic Calvert-Lewin who imposes himself as a physical and aerial threat, but goes on about his work quietly.
He’s capable of running the channels and stretching the opposition defences and the more he players, the better his composure will be in front of goal.
Demarai Gray has been handed a start in recent games and he’s led the line well, but Simms’ goal now gives Dyche some food for thought.
He will be eager to prove a point and the Everton manager could benefit from playing the 22-year-old against Spurs after the international break.
Hopefully, none of the other players suffer any injuries when they’re out featuring for their countries.