Everton could regret Andros Townsend exit as he trains with Premier League rivals
Former Everton winger Andros Townsend is in training with newly-promoted Burnley after leaving Goodison Park when his contract expired, according to BBC Sport.
Townsend left Everton at the end of his contract, following a season completely ruined by injuries. The former Crystal Palace winger picked up a cruciate ligament injury in the Toffees visit to Selhurst Park on 20 March 2022, and he has not featured since.
If he joins Vincent Kompany’s side this season, Townsend could come back to bite Everton, as the club are currently lacking wingers with Demarai Gray and Dwight McNeil the only wide-men currently on the books.
Townsend would also be a great fit for Sean Dyche, with his work rate and crossing ability key parts of the way the Everton boss sets out his game.
The decision to let him leave was understandable
Having been out of the game for a year and a half, the decision to let Townsend leave the club upon the expiry of his contract was certainly an understandable one. The state of his recovery and fitness is an unknown that can’t be accounted for when on big wages.
It should be said though, a fully-fit Townsend would’ve suited Dyche perfectly. A hard-working winger suited to playing in a 4-4-2 whose crossing is one of his best attributes, likely playing with Calvert-Lewin up top, it all makes so much sense.
He seems, on paper, less suited to Kompany’s Burnley side who, much like the manager’s former side Manchester City, prefer a high-tempo passing game. Townsend will contribute his experience, knowledge and work ethic to the side, and should hope to play as many minutes as possible on his return to fitness.
Everton fans will be hoping this decision doesn’t come back to bite them this season.
In other Everton news, a journalist has reacted to the latest Toffees transfer link.