Everton put up a brilliant fight against league leaders Arsenal, but two late goals resulted in a 2-0 loss at the Emirates.
For 88 minutes at the Emirates Stadium, Everton had done everything asked of them. Without first-choice centre-backs James Tarkowski and Jarrad Branthwaite, the Toffees stifled the Premier League leaders, created the better chances, and looked capable of adding another famous away scalp to their collection. Then two late goals turned the game on its head.
Viktor Gyokeres scored the first in the 89th minute before 16-year-old Max Dowman broke away in stoppage time to become the Premier League’s youngest-ever scorer. The 2-0 scoreline was harsh but amid the disappointment, there were genuine positives for David Moyes’ side.
Michael Keane shines on big stage
Michael Keane was thrust into the starting line-up at late notice after Tarkowski and Branthwaite were both ruled out ahead of kick-off. The 33-year-old responded with his most assured performance of the season, reminding everyone why he remains a valuable member of this squad.
The defender was involved in a tangle with Kai Havertz that was not given as a penalty, but that was his only potential mistake in the entire match. Otherwise, he was brilliant defensively, making 16 defensive contributions including five interceptions, six clearances, and four blocked shots. He completed 26 of his 30 passes for an 87 per cent success rate against title-chasing opposition.
Keane insisted afterwards that there are plenty of positives to take from the narrow defeat, with the Blues still firmly in contention for European qualification. Speaking after the game, he pointed to the performance as evidence of the squad’s resilience and quality, even when missing key personnel.
Contract situation and future
Keane’s Everton contract is set to expire at the end of the season. He signed a one-year extension last summer, and there have been no indications that he is close to agreeing to new terms at Hill Dickinson Stadium.
But this performance against Arsenal provided all the evidence the club should need to extend his deal beyond this campaign. He has proven he is a reliable backup option who can step in and start when necessary, whether through injuries or tactical decisions. It would be much harder to find someone in the transfer market willing to warm the bench behind Tarkowski and Branthwaite.
The veteran is a big presence in the dressing room, and losing his influence and ability from the squad could be a grave error, especially after his display against the Gunners. It makes much more sense for the Toffees to keep Keane and focus their attention on other positions when the market reopens. With European football still very much in sight, retaining experienced squad players who can deliver performances like this one is essential.
The Toffees looked set to secure an impressive point against the league leaders. They battled hard despite key absentees and could have come out on top on another day. Next up is Chelsea at Hill Dickinson Stadium on Saturday, 21 March. If Keane maintains this level, he will give Moyes a welcome selection headache.
- Michael Keane believes alot of positives from Arsenal defeat despite cruel late goals
- Difficult to recruit for ‘problematic club’, David Moyes gives Everton recruitment problems
- Jarrad Branthwaite update: David Moyes says ‘Jarrad will be fine’ ahead of Arsenal clash
- Arsenal vs Everton: Team news, predictions, where to watch
- Arsenal vs Everton: Can David Moyes mastermind another upset
