Everton midfielder Idrissa Gana Gueye has admitted that there is extra pressure going into crucial games as the relegation scrap nears conclusion.
The 33-year-old states that the pressure ‘does weigh’ on him, but it is all about focus once he gets out on the pitch.
Speaking with the official Everton website ahead of tomorrow’s trip to Wolves, the Senegalese star reflects on what the club represents to the passionate fan base.
Gana Gueye stated: “We know there’s extra pressure, maybe you aren’t quite as relaxed on the field in games because we know what the Club represents to us and the fans.
That pressure does weigh on you a little bit when you are playing, but when you do get out on the field, you focus on playing, you relax a little bit and you allow yourself to play.”
Everton need experienced players like Gueye to lead the line tomorrow
The 33-year-old returned to Goodison Park last summer for a fee of £2m after a three-year absence, following his £29m 2019 move to French giants PSG.
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The Senegal international is one of the most experienced players within the Everton squad and has played 31 out of the 36 Premier League games for the Blues this season.
Indeed, he will no doubt be named in Sean Dyche’s starting XI tomorrow alongside Malian Abdoulaye Doucoure, though who will complete the midfield trio remains to be seen.
22-year-old James Garner has performed well in recent weeks and deserves to keep his place in the starting XI, with Belgium international Amadou Onana an option off the bench.
The trip to Molyneux tomorrow is without doubt a high-pressure fixture for the Toffees, though the fact that the hosts have little to play for could assist Everton.
A win for Sean Dyche’s side tomorrow would be enormous.