Why Sam Johnstone’s value to Everton would go beyond the pitch amid transfer interest

Mark Travers' potential exit could see Everton dip into the goalkeeper market.

And Wolves goalkeeper Sam Johnstone is a name currently said to be on their shortlist.

Johnstone is an England international, having made four appearances for the Three Lions, and wouth arrive with plenty of experience.

With a deputy unlikely to displace Jordan Pickford, the Toffees will need to sign a player for more than just their on-pitch qualities.

Things such as character and mindset should come into play when making their decision.

And when it comes to Johnstone, he has that in abundance based on his own words.

How Sam Johnstone has already shown he would understand Everton role

Being a number two is nothing new for Johnstone, who at both Wolves and Crystal Palace has found himself watching on from the bench.

And when at Selhurst Park, the shot-stopper perfectly summed up the role that he would likely take as Everton eye a move for Johnstone.

With Vicente Guaita at the South London club during his time, there was fierce competition between the Spaniard and the Englishman.

But Johnstone relished the job ahead of him, stating as relayed by Crystal Palace: "You’re competing for one spot and whoever plays the rest have to be supportive and that’s the way it goes."

“Everyone knows that and we work together every day and it’s competitive. We push each other and that’s the way it is. We’re so used to being away from the outfield players but the other thing we’re used to is only one of us can play.”

Why Everton need someone who can embrace life behind Jordan Pickford

The role of second choice can be unforgiving as Travers came to understand at Hill Dickinson.

Travers featured in just two games for Everton last season, and at this stage, it is unlikely for Pickford to be usurped.

So, not only would a new goalkeeper have to be a reliable back-up, but they must also have a strong personality and mindset to deal with potentially long-winded spells away from the pitch.

And that quality can often be rare to find, making Johnstone an attractive and potentially valuable pick up.

Based on his own personal history and his age, he is well suited to dealing with that reality. And his mindset would be a perfect addition for the dressing room.

Everton were also in the market for Karl Darlow, with a contract offer reportedly put on the table.

However, the latest reports from the Athletic have the Welshman heading for Manchester United.

This makes links to Johnstone make plenty of sense as the Toffees continue to seek another goalkeeper.