In the pre-match press conference ahead of Everton’s Premier League clash against Manchester United at Goodison Park (via The Liverpool Echo), Carlo Ancelotti addressed the recent speculation surrounding the future of Mason Holgate when he said,
“I think it’s a rumour, but if it’s not a rumour I can say Mason Holgate is an important part of the future of Everton.
“There is no possibility he can go to another club.
“Zero possibility, like my friend [Jose] Mourinho says! Zero.”
Holgate’s Impressive Numbers In The Premier League
Holgate has improved his game under Ancelotti’s stewardship and has put in some matured performances at the heart of the Toffees backline. He has formed a solid partnership with Yerry Mina and Michael Keane but still has a lot to learn if he wants to become a household name in English football someday.
The 23-year-old has played in 25 matches for the Merseyside outfit this term and has averaged 1.6 tackles, 1.2 interceptions and 3.3 clearances per game in the Premier League (stats via whoscored). He is producing quite healthy numbers in terms of his defensive contributions at Goodison Park. Holgate has also scored one goal and provided three assists across all competitions which goes to prove that he can contribute at both ends of the pitch.
The ex-Barnsley defensive ace has also represented England at various youth levels but is yet to earn his senior cap for the Three Lions. Therefore, Ancelotti’s confidence in Holgate suggests that the English centre-back might get more game time in the coming years, which could help him catch the attention of England boss Gareth Southgate.
The game ended 1-1. (PAUL ELLIS/AFP/Getty Images)
What Does The English Defender Bring To The Table?
On his day, Holgate can be a rock at the back as he can make some vital last-gasp clearances for his side. He is a decent tackler but needs to stay on his feet more often if he wants to avoid giving away needless fouls inside his own half. The English centre-half is gradually transforming himself into a regular starter in the Premier League, so it is no wonder that Ancelotti wants to retain his services beyond this summer.
Squashing Holgate’s Exit Rumours: Wise Move By Ancelotti?
Holgate has built a good chemistry with his Everton teammates and is a fast learner as evidenced by his stats this season. Hence, we can expect to see him get better with each season as long as he is willing to work hard on the training field. Now that the Toffees head coach has squashed all the rumours surrounding Holgate’s future, it’s high time that the talented defender repaid his manager’s faith by finding a run of consistency during the business end of this campaign.
The Merseyside outfit are reluctant to let the Doncaster-born defender leave in the off-season so it will now be up to Holgate to help his side push for a top 6 finish in the league. All in all, Ancelotti’s decision to come clear regarding the player’s future could prove to be a wise move in the long-run. Holgate is about to embark upon the best years of his football career, so his value could skyrocket if the Toffees keep hold of him for the time being.
