Ainsley Maitland-Niles has given David Moyes something to think about ahead of Everton’s trip to Tottenham on Saturday.
The deadline-day signing marked his debut against Manchester United by thumping home a superb stoppage-time equaliser from distance to rescue a 2-2 draw. Now comes the question of whether he starts at Tottenham.
Merlin Rohl has been Moyes’ choice at right-back in all three Premier League games so far, despite being more naturally suited to midfield. United caused Everton problems down that side last weekend, with Marcus Rashford particularly dangerous at times. Rohl still contributed going forward, including an excellent cross which Thierno Barry was unable to convert.
As we looked at after the United game, Moyes appears willing to give Rohl time to learn the position rather than viewing him simply as a stop-gap. Maitland-Niles now gives him another option.
The 29-year-old arrived from Lyon on deadline day after Everton’s lengthy search for a right-back and was introduced with 19 minutes remaining against United. He admitted afterwards that he still needed to sit down with Moyes to discuss exactly where the manager sees him playing.
One spectacular goal doesn’t mean Maitland-Niles automatically starts at Tottenham. Röhl has been trusted with the shirt so far, and there is no guarantee Moyes will change that after three games. But the decision is now his to make.
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