Delph joins Silva is praising Holgate’s performances

Mason Holgate has impressed many with his recent performances for Everton, since having been brought in in Yerry Mina’s stead against Brighton.

The 23-year old came on towards the end of Everton’s game against West Ham as Mina had picked up a knock, and he continued to deputise in the following game against the Seagulls where he impressed, assisting Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s goal.

Holgate again started in the Blues next game, starting alongside Mina against Watford in the Carabao Cup.

While Mina was substituted for Michael Keane in the first-half, Holgate played the full 90 against the Hornets, scoring Everton’s first goal of the game with a well timed header.

The former Barnsley man is in line to keep his place against Tottenham on Sunday, regardless of whether Mina is fit, and Delph thinks the decision to include the former England youth international is justified.

Marco Silva has heaped praise on the versatile defender, and Delph has also talked up former West Brom loanee, telling Everton’s website:

It is very important for guys to step up and it’s probably the best I’ve seen Mason [against Watford]. I’ve been really impressed with him in training and was happy he came in and did a good job. I am delighted for him.

I spoke to him at the start of the season. Every player wants to be playing and I said to him, ‘I have played football a long time and sometimes you have to be patient and when your chance comes take it’.

And, so far, he is taking his chance. If he can keep that form going, I am sure he will get a run of games. It is good for him and good for the Club.

It is healthy, competition wise, and I am pleased for him.

I speak to Mason quite a bit – but I am pleasantly surprised how vocal he is. On the pitch, he is very vocal, he is giving a lot of information from behind which helps.

He reminds me of myself in terms of having a big mouth! As long as he keeps performing and communicating, it’s only going to help him improve as a player.

Read Everton Verdict

I really rate Mason as a top talent, and I’m delighted that he has been able to make the most of the opportunity that he has been handed.

Of course he’ll have to maintain this level of performance going forward, especially with Yerry Mina having picked up another knock against Watford.

I think he can do it, though. He has the right application, certainly the right amount of ability to succeed and at just 23-years old, he’ll keep getting better with more game time at the highest level.