In a recent interview with RMC Sport (transcripted by The Liverpool Echo), Djibril Sidibe spoke out on his long-term future at Everton when he said, “I have had a discussion with the Monaco board, they know my position, I know theirs.
“My aim is to play matches at a high intensity, which is what I have discovered in the Premier League.
“Concerning Everton, I have my position, I also know the coach’s position (Carlo Ancelotti). I can’t say, but on my side everything is green lit.
“The coach likes me; he has faith in me. Then there are things that will count that I do not have control over, Monaco’s position, Everton’s position.
“My aim is to play the maximum number of games until the end of the season, EURO 2020 is coming. (Everton) really want to invest to reach the European places and that is something that is well on its way and that interests me, it is what I want, we will see what the future has in store.”
The French defender is currently playing on loan at Merseyside from AS Monaco with the Toffees having the option to sign him permanently for a fee around £12.7m at the end of this campaign (via The Liverpool Echo).
Sidibe’s Impressive Loan Spell At Merseyside
The Troyes-born full-back has become a real fan favourite at Goodison Park for his attacking productivity going forward. Even though he can be a bit vulnerable defensively, Sidibe has shown that he is a very capable right-back, who can create some decent goal-scoring chances for his teammates in the final third.
The 27-year-old has featured in 24 matches for the Merseyside outfit this term, registering six assists in the process. He is yet to score his first goal for the Toffees. However, it wasn’t for the lack of trying as he has often gotten into some dangerous positions inside the opposition penalty box.
What Does The French Right-Back Offer On The Pitch?
Sidibe has averaged 3.7 tackles, 1.8 interceptions and 1.3 clearances in every 90 minutes of Premier League football this season which goes to show that he is a very underrated defender at the back (stats via whoscored). However, what makes the Frenchman such an invaluable member of Carlo Ancelotti’s squad is his attacking prowess. He is not shy of making some lung-bursting runs down the right flank and has already shown that he has the vision to pick out a killer pass in the final third after averaging nearly one key pass per game in the English top-flight this term (stats via whoscored).
What Should Be Ancelotti’s Play Here?
Sidibe’s latest comments reveal that he is motivated to play in the Premier League week in week out and wants push for a European place this season. His words will be music to Ancelotti’s ears as the Italian tactician is likely going to be quite happy to retain his services for the long-run. The 2018 FIFA World Cup winner has managed to establish himself as a regular starter in the right-back position for Everton. He is also versatile enough to fill in as a left-back if required.
Sidibe’s presence will also offer Ancelotti more freedom to be flexible with his team selection, formations and tactics in the coming years. The Toffees head coach could use the French defensive ace either on the right side of a back four or play him in a more advanced role as a right wing-back when opting to play with three centre-halves at the back. Furthermore, Sidibe’s offensive qualities and commitment to the cause, make him a necessity signing for the Merseyside outfit this summer.
