BBC pundit Garth Crooks has claimed new Everton boss Rafa Benitez owes Richarlison a ‘debt of gratitude’ following the gold-winning Olympian’s fine display against Southampton.
Crooks’ BBC colleague Chris Sutton lambasted Richarlison for his first-half dive that saw the forward booked, but that did not prevent Crooks from focusing on the Brazilian’s heroics in front of goal.
The appointment of Rafa Benitez, who famously won the UEFA Champions League with Everton’s arch-rivals Liverpool in 2005, has been met with concern and consternation by some Evertonians.
However, Everton’s 3-1 comeback victory against Southampton will have gone a long way in easing some of the anxieties around Goodison Park – something that Crooks feels will cause Benitez to be grateful for Richarlison’s leadership in front of goal.
Naming the 24-year-old in his BBC Team of the Week, Crooks commented:
“While other international players are having extended holidays in order to recover from the Euros, Richarlison answers the call of club and country with equal measure and without fear or favour,” he said.
“I think Rafa Benitez owes this lad a debt of gratitude. If Benitez loses the opening game, the Everton boo boys – who hate his association with their Liverpool rivals – are suddenly after him. Richarlison has given him a brilliant start and bought him valuable time.”
Read Everton Verdict
There is something to be admired in Richarlison’s willingness to step up for his side so soon after returning from international duty.
Adding to his impressive resurgence for Everton, he also did not lack a scoring touch – igniting a tentative sign of renewed cause for hope at Goodison Park.
Comments.
Loading comments…