The Merseyside derby proved to be a tense and cagey affair densely loaded with goals, VAR controversy and heated contestation.
Amongst the talking points, one star figure for the Toffees was ex-Barcelona man Lucas Digne. The in-form Dominic Calvert-Lewin scored from a Lucas Digne cross with a towering header, capping off a dynamic display with a much-deserved assist.
Beyond his assist, Digne produced a formidable defensive display that superbly demonstrated his importance to Carlo Ancelotti’s side. Impressively, Digne has already justified his offensive credentials with two assists in just five Premier League appearances.
He also produced three chances created, a further five crosses (of which two were accurate) and seven clearances in Saturday’s 2-2 draw against Liverpool. The Frenchman is swiftly becoming talismanic in both Everton’s attack and defence.
Staggeringly, Digne has produced 12% of all crosses and shots to come from set-pieces this season, further highlighting his ever-present role in opening up new ways through which Everton can attack their opposition.
Everton, who remain top of the Premier League with 13 points, narrowly eclipse their neighbours in 3rd with 10 points. Everton have yet to record a victory over their rivals in the last 10 years of contestation between the two sides.
Everton fans were quick to heap praise and have their say over their left-back’s performance…
Twitter: Our left back is Magic and his name is Lucas Digne
(@thejayhowardd)
Twitter: Digne was brilliant today #efc (@DJOTaylor)
Twitter: Lucas Digne today
1 assist
3 key passes (joint-most)
5 aerials won (most)
7 clearances (joint-most)#EFC have a l… https://t.co/BgzuHxeZIl (@Paddy_Boyland)
Twitter: @LucasDigne Best left back in the league. Maybe even world lad (@adxm1878)
Twitter: @LucasDigne When is digne gona get the respect he deserves from the media. Been outstanding this season
(@Dixie73375628)
Twitter: @LucasDigne @Everton MOTM performance AGAIN! Bravo, Lucas! (@CarrCole)
