Paul Merson wowed by Dwight McNeil in Everton v Arsenal
Paul Merson wowed by Dwight McNeil in Everton v Arsenal

Paul Merson wowed by what Dwight McNeil did for Everton v Arsenal on Sky Sports

Harri Burton

Senior Correspondent AUTHORITY Senior football journalist specialising in refereeing and officiating; former contributor to The Football League Paper, Late Tackle, and the Premier League; University of Derby graduate. FOCUS Refereeing controversies, football finance and governance, PGMOL decisions, and officiating analysis across the Premier League, EFL, and SPFL. THE INSIGHT Harri utilises a network of officiating and industry contacts to deliver verified, expert analysis of refereeing decisions and PGMOL policy. He provides the regulatory clarity behind the controversy to ensure fans get the full picture.

Published on

Paul Merson was left amazed by what Dwight McNeil did as Everton lost 2-1 against Arsenal on the final day of the Premier League season on Sunday (19 May).

The Toffees had multiple chances to open the scoring, most of all as Dominic Calvert-Lewin hammered the post after some brilliant build-up play by McNeil and Idrissa Gana Gueye.

The latter eventually helped Sean Dyche's side take an unexpected lead as the midfielder's free-kick deflected in off Declan Rice, though it was McNeil's earlier contribution that got fans on their feet.

Speaking live via Sky Sports on Sunday (19 May, 4:31pm), Merson said: "Calvert-Lewin has just hit the post. They break away and are on the counter-attack, and McNeil makes an unbelievable run.

"Then all of a sudden, Gueye puts in Calvert-Lewin, he hits it with his right, hits the post and then it comes back to him and he hits the side netting. Real good break, real good effort."

Dwight McNeil wows in Arsenal v Everton as Premier League title race is decided

The 24-year-old wide midfielder has been a constant performer at Goodison Park this season, playing a vital role as Everton were able to secure Premier League safety.

He started 33 of the Toffees' 38 league matches, showing exactly why Dyche brought him over from Burnley in the summer of 2022 after working with the player at Turf Moor.

Of course, with three goals and six assists in those appearances, some may expect more from the dynamic midfielder. However, considering that only Sheffield United have scored fewer goals this season, McNeil's impact has been vital.

Everton
Dwight McNeil has experienced a superb season with Everton

McNeil is certainly a player Everton will want to keep hold of as the club enters a summer of uncertainty. 777 Partners' takeover is no closer to being completed while the team have done their job on the pitch.

Due to the Profit and Sustainability breaches, many expect a whole-fire sale at Goodison Park during the summer transfer market. Whatever happens, the 24-year-old must still be in Merseyside when the 2024/25 campaign kicks off.

For more Everton news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.

www.goodisonnews.com