Richarlison branded a ‘joke’ after Everton exit to Tottenham as furious pundit rages over ‘great’ £60million transfer
Tony Cascarino was furious at Richarlison after his performance for Tottenham against Aston Villa and branded him a “joke” after being an Everton hero last season.
The Brazilian left Goodison Park in a £60million deal last summer after playing a vital role in keeping the Toffees in the Premier League, but has had a miserable first season in North London.
After Spurs lost 2-1 at Villa on Saturday (13 May) Cascarino teed off on him for his inability to recreate what he had produced in a Blues shirt prior to the “great” move that he got last June.
Speaking on talkSPORT on Sunday (14 May) Cascarino said: “The worst player for what he’s got [this season], Richarlison. He’s been a joke this year, Richarlison. I don’t care if he’s been injured or gone away for the World Cup… yesterday he hardly tried a leg, he really looked disinterested…
“Richarlison was the player last year who I felt was as responsible as anybody for keeping Everton up, he hasn’t shown any of that at Spurs…
“He’s had a great move. He was at a very good football club in Everton then they get a £60million offer for him. Tottenham have really gone after someone to put pressure on their front three. Has he at any point this season [done that]?
“I’d say no. He’s been hugely disappointing, Richarlison.”
Grass not greener
Everton had to sell to balance the books and the 26-year-old appeared to be ready to move on, but the situation hasn’t really worked out particularly well for any of the parties involved.
The Toffees banked the cash which was much-needed, but on the pitch they struggled in attack under both Frank Lampard and Sean Dyche without the Pigeon in the ranks, especially with Dominic Calvert-Lewin out for much of the season.
Neal Maupay proved to be anything but a like-for-like replacement, and may move on after just a season, with the club once again facing the drop following defeat to Manchester City.
The Everton fans would love to have had their former player available to come up with some of the key moments he did 12 months ago, but despite a solid World Cup for Brazil he has struggled badly with Spurs.
Just three goals this season, and only one in the Premier League, is scant return on £60million so there may be some buyer’s remorse in the capital.
Everton have been on the wrong end of a signing that hasn’t worked out despite a big fee plenty of times in recent years, and while few on Merseyside were glad to see him go they are at least on the other side of the equation this time.