In a recent interview (via The Daily Mail), Everton defender Mason Holgate revealed that he is concentrating on helping his team climb up the Premier League table when he said,
‘It’s not really what I think about my personal form, it is more about the team and where we are going as a team.
‘I am glad we have started getting results. Last week (the 3-2 defeat at Arsenal) we were upset with our defensive play and the gaffer came out and said that.
‘I am more than happy with how things went (against United). We looked quite solid as apart from the goal I think we defended quite well.’
The Daily Mirror had reported last week that Manchester City are eyeing a £30m move to bring the Toffees centre-back to the Etihad Stadium at the end of this campaign. Therefore, Holgate’s latest comments will be quite pleasing to anyone associated with the Merseyside club. The fact that the Everton defender is only thinking about how to help his side get more favourable results is a clear reflection of what Carlo Ancelotti wants from his players.
Holgate’s Impressive Form Under Ancelotti
The English prospect has enjoyed his time at Goodison Park since Ancelotti’s appointment as the club’s new manager last December. He has struck up a good understanding with Yerry Mina and Michael Keane in recent weeks which has transformed the Merseyside club’s fortunes for the better.
The Doncaster-born centre-back has been involved in 26 matches for the Toffees this term and has averaged 1.6 tackles, 1.1 interceptions and 3.2 clearances in every 90 minutes of league football (stats via whoscored). Holgate’s numbers have improved under Ancelotti’s stewardship but he still has a lot to learn if he wants to become a world-class player in his position someday. The 23-year-old has registered one goal and three assists for his team so far this season which goes to highlight his impact at both ends of the field.
What Are The English Defender’s Strengths?
When playing with confidence on the pitch, Holgate can be a solid presence at the back as he has matured as a centre-back over the past 12 months. He has shown this season that he can read the game well to make some crucial last-ditch clearances for his side. The English defensive ace can also go in for a few tackles to win the ball for his team but needs to avoid going to the ground when attempting to stop his marker in the final third.
Holgate’s Determination To Succeed At Merseyside: Big Boost For Ancelotti?
The 23-year-old is currently playing some of the best football of his playing career which is why it is no wonder that a top club like Man City are interested in securing his services this summer. However, Holgate is determined to prove his worth for Everton, which will be a big boost for Ancelotti and his hopes of retaining the talented centre-half for the long-run.
The Italian head coach has a proven track record for getting the best out his young players, so Holgate has no reason to leave as long as he is getting regular playing opportunities at Merseyside. With the Toffees sitting just five points below the fifth-placed Manchester United, there is an outside chance for Ancelotti to mastermind a late push for a top 5 finish in the league table.
If Man City’s two-year UEFA ban gets upheld by the Court of Arbitration for Sport, then Holgate would have no reason to join the Citizens as he will have a better shot of securing Champions League football if he stays at Goodison Park for now.
