Superficially, the experience boasted by Andros Townsend would have made him a known quantity at Everton following top-flight histories with the likes of Newcastle and Crystal Palace.
Indeed, Townsend shone for Everton on opening day as Everton completed an impressive 3-1 turnaround victory against Southampton, despite the Toffees being 1-0 down at the break thanks to calamitous defending and an Adam Armstrong strike.
Shortly after the break, a rebounding ball was floated in by Townsend using his head, setting up talismanic Everton forward Richarlison’s equaliser for the Toffees.
Everton would go on to capitalise on the momentum caused from Richarlison and Townsend’s efforts, with a nimble and accurate Abdoulaye Doucoure strike joining a late Calvert-Lewin goal to secure all three points for Rafa Benitez’ side.
Aside from his assist however, Townsend became an unsung hero in Everton’s victory.
As shared on Twitter by football fan app Pitch Football (@PitchFooty), no player created more big chances in Everton’s victory over Southampton than Townsend’s three.
Twitter:
No player created more chances in Everton’s victory over Southampton than ?????? ???????? (?).
Whisper it quietl… https://t.co/c2Wf3epSbB (@PitchFooty)
Rafa Benitez, who worked with Townsend at Newcastle, has praised the ex-Spurs man’s leadership and looks likely to continue to lean on Townsend after his performance.
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The summer recruit’s efforts are a glowing testament to his hard-working displays, and the 30-year-old free agent’s arrival undoubtedly got off to a promising start.
His performance, and not least a debut win for Rafa Benitez, could go a long way in easing nerves around Goodison Park.
Concerns and disgruntlement from some sections of the Everton fanbase is well-documented, and such impressive turnarounds and positive results will go a long way in improving the well-noted lack of optimism bedevilling supporters.
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