In the pre-match press conference ahead of Everton’s clash versus West Ham United at Goodison Park on Saturday afternoon (via the Liverpool Echo), Marco Silva provided an update on Fabian Delph’s availability when he said, “Let’s see how he reacts. He is getting better. We will make a decision tomorrow”.
Delph Has Settled In Quite Well At Merseyside
The English midfield has made a fantastic start to his career at Merseyside. He has arguably been one of Silva’s top performers on the field this season, so it will be a bitter pill to swallow if he is ruled out for the clash against the Hammers. The Bradford-born has featured in seven matches for the Toffees this term but is yet to open his goal-scoring account for his new employers.
However, Delph has made an average of 2.8 tackles, 1.0 interceptions and 1.0 clearances per game in the Premier League thus far. He has also completed 86.6% of his passes attempted and has played 0.6 key passes per match in the English top-flight (stats via whoscored).
If we look deep into the Everton new boy’s stats, we can deduce that he has made a significant impact for the Toffees at both ends of the pitch. However, Delph needs to figure out a way to help his team win some league matches in the coming weeks so that they can get themselves out of the relegation zone.
What Are The English Midfielder’s Best Attributes?
Delph remains calm and composed on the ball even when he is under pressure from the opposition. He can retain the ball for his team and make some accurate passes from midfield. The English talent is not afraid to pick out one of his teammates if they can offer him an outlet going forward. The former Manchester City sensation is also willing to do the dirty defensive work at the centre of the park which makes him a brilliant two-way option for Silva at Goodison Park.
Why The Toffees Need Delph Back For The West Ham Encounter
The Merseyside outfit will hope that Delph can recover in time to face West Ham this weekend as he can prove to be the difference between their success and failure. When the English midfield ace plays well, Everton usually find more joy on the pitch as he can dictate proceedings on his own. However, without Delph, the Toffees look devoid of ideas in midfield which is a massive cause for concern.
Therefore, Silva would keep his fingers crossed that Delph can come back stronger than ever and put in a match-winning display versus Manuel Pellegrini’s men on Saturday. The Everton boss needs a positive response from his players this weekend or else risk getting the sack in the coming weeks.
