In a recent interview with Bundesliga.com, Everton defender Jonjoe Kenny, who is playing on loan at Schalke 04, refused to rule out a permanent switch to Gelsenkirchen next summer and said,
“It’s still too early for that decision. I don’t want to live in the future. Whatever happens, happens. Now I’m definitely giving everything for Schalke.
“Schalke is still a huge club. The club has played regularly in Europe, and has a large following. People know Schalke from the Champions League, it’s a world club. Now we’re concentrating on the league and want to take the next steps.”
Kenny’s Impressive Loan Spell At Schalke So Far
Kenny has gone out on a season-long loan deal in search of more game time in the German top-flight after a frustrating season at Goodison Park in the previous term. The 22-year-old has made an excellent start to life in Germany after he scored once in four matches for David Wagner’s side on all fronts this season. On the defensive end, he has averaged 2.3 tackles, 0.3 interceptions and 2.3 clearances per game in the Bundesliga this term (stats via whoscored).
The Liverpool-born full-back joined Everton at an early age before coming through their youth ranks and graduating from the Toffees academy. Kenny finally managed to break into the Everton first-team back in 2017 but has failed to secure regular game time for the Merseyside outfit over the past couple of seasons. The Bundesliga new boy has also represented England at various youth levels but is yet to make a senior appearance for his country.
What Are The English Full-back’s Strengths And Weaknesses?
Kenny is a moderately paced defender who can put in a tireless shift down the right flank. He can be a reliable presence inside his own half but doesn’t offer too much going forward. The Schalke loanee needs to add more end-product to his game if he wants to succeed at the highest level.
Marco Silva has currently got Seamus Coleman and Djibril Sidibé vying for a right-berth berth in the Toffees first-team. However, Coleman is slowing down with each season and has lost a yard of pace from his game as he is currently playing in the twilight years of his football career.
Should The Toffees Cash In On Kenny?
If Kenny can impress during his spell at Gelsenkirchen this season, then there could be a way back from him at Goodison Park. For now, Silva will be better off not cashing in on the English defender as he could still play a major role for Everton in the coming years.
