Ex-Everton employee heaps praise on Toffees star despite him ‘lacking ability’
Everton’s start to the 2025/26 campaign has certainly been mixed.
After a great August, the Toffees are yet to pick up a win this month after a string of poor performances.
The worst came on Tuesday, with Everton losing 2-0 to Wolves to crash out of the Carabao Cup.
As a result, plenty of stars have come under criticism for their performances, with Beto struggling at Everton so far this season.
However, there have also been plenty of players who have impressed early on.
This article includes exclusive comment from former Everton scout Bryan King.
Bryan King: Michael Keane has done well since Jarrard Branthwaite’s injury
Michael Keane has been sensational so far for Everton this season.
The centre-back has come into the side for the injured Jarrad Branthwaite and has not looked out of place.
It has no doubt been a big turnaround for Keane, who was almost released by Everton in the summer.
Now, Bryan King has heaped praise on the centre-back for his displays so far this season.
- Keane has played in every Everton match this season
- The centre-back looked set to be released in the summer before he was given a late contract
- Since then, Keane has been excellent for Everton
“He’s proved that he’s a good pro,” King said.
“He knew that he wasn’t going to be first-choice after the emergence of Branthwaite, but he’s got on with it and he’s never moaned.
“Injuries change circumstances in football, and he’s come in and done a solid job.
“Moyes likes nothing more than players who are honest, and are prepared to put their lives on the line as such for the club.
“He’s certainly one of those players. He might lack one or two things in terms of ability, but he’s got a big heart and he’s brave. I think that’s why he’s had the encouragement that he’s had from Moyes.”
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Michael Keane has been one of Everton’s best players this season
There is no doubt that Keane has been one of Everton’s best players this season.
The centre-back has been part of a backline that hasn’t even conceded a goal at the Hill Dickinson Stadium since their move from Goodison Park.
While Moyes will be keen to get Jarrad Branthwaite back to full fitness, it is hard to see how he gets back into the starting XI at present.
While this could give the Scotsman a tough decision to make in the coming weeks, it is a good dilemma to have.
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