The vibes at the Goodison Park have been positive ever since Ronald Koeman joined hands with Everton Football Club. Under the impeccable tutelage of the Dutchman, it would be safe to say that the Toffees are seemingly likely to kiss the pedestals of success in the coming years. There appears to be a lot of optimism, coupled with neat and professional displays with the desired output at Everton and their latest win against Sunderland on Saturday was a testament to the sudden uplift in their yardsticks this season and of course, the touch of unadulterated class.
The analogy between the guardianship of Roberto Martinez and Koeman is notably stark, for the former’s tenure was characterized by more of talking and less of actually doing whereas the latter has done exactly the contrary. The Blues are currently just behind the top six sides of English football at this point in time and aren’t really too far from clinching the European spots either. Nonetheless, even if they fail clinch even a Europa League spot, they shouldn’t be ashamed of themselves, for they have actually excelled this season.
For the continuation of their splendid form, Koeman would need quality at the back in the shape of a signing or two, considering that his team is moulded very nicely and a summer of humungous overhaul is improbable. However, one of the rising stars they must strive to sign should be Burnley’s hot-shot Michael Keane after failing to lure him to the Goodison Park in the January transfer window. Having left Manchester United in search of more game time, the central defender took barely one season to showcase himself as one of the best defenders which Premier League has on offer. He might not be a complete player, but he is certainly not very far from being a world-class servant of the game.
Keane always looks assured and confident with the ball at his feet, is commanding in the air, and never refrains from taking bold decisions in crunch situations and breaks opponents’ attacking endeavours with relative ease. In 26 appearances for Sean Dyche’s side this campaign, the 24-year-old has won 14 tackles with a success rate of 54%, has made 51 interceptions, 181 clearances and 34 blocks apart from scoring 2 crucial goals.
With due respect to Burnley, they aren’t world-beaters and a good amount of transfer fee could tempt the Clarets to let him go to a bigger club. Although Everton’s full-back slots have much to offer, their central defence doesn’t boast of possessing too much of quality or quantity. If is of paramount importance for the Toffees to keep the momentum going by signing a proven defender like Keane to keep the momentum going in their favour.
Statistics Credits: Squawka.
