Lutsharel Geertruida shows value to Everton interest with display in Sunderland win
Lutsharel Geertruida was on the winning side at Hill Dickinson as Sunderland secured a 3-1 victory against Everton.
And that now means that the Toffees have failed to win any of their last six Premier League encounters, all but ending their chances of qualifying for Europe.
They remain in with an outside chance at best of doing so, though it would require almost every result to go their way, as well as certain scorelines given the goal difference swing that would be required.
Sunderland were well worth their three points against another underpar Everton side, which failed to offer anything in the final third.
After links connecting him with a move to Everton, Geertruida more than played his part in that with a fine performance for the Black Cats.
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How did Lutsharel Geertruida fare vs Everton?
While it hasn’t been uncommon as of late, Iliman Ndiaye was not in the game whatsoever, and for that, Geertruida deserves his credit.
The Dutch international won all three of his ground duels on the day, as well as recording a 100 per cent win rate in his aerial duels.
| vs Everton | Geertruida |
| Passes completed | 48 |
| Recoveries | 7 |
| Ground duels won | 3 |
| Aeiral duels won | 2 |
| Fouls won | Aerial duels won |
He completed two tackles and made two clearances, with a total of six defensive contributions, showcasing his ability at the back.
However, Everton’s interest in the Dutchman goes far beyond what he offers defensively, as showcased by his stats on the ball.
Geertruida completed 92 per cent of his 52 attempted passes against the Toffees, including a 100 per cent accuracy with his attempted long balls.
Quite frankly, it was a perfect display from the defender, whose chances of moving to Merseyside may have taken a hit.
Everton may have shot themselves in the foot with Sunderland defeat
Had the Toffees won, a European spot would have been somewhat likely ahead of the final game of the season.
That would have immediately put them in good standing to seal a deal for the Sunderland star, but the roles may have changed.
The Black Cats are now a win away from Europe themselves, and if achieved, they will need adequate squad depth to compete.
And if so, that could see them change their stance on signing Geertruida after it was reported they wouldn’t be taking up their option to buy.
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