With another tough clash looming over Everton tonight, it will certainly take the full might of their newfound spirit for them to claim a result against Manchester City.
However, the Toffees have already exhibited their uncanny and inexplicable ability to threaten most sides, arguably thriving more so when starved of possession rather than when they are gifted the initiative.
So, few should play into Sean Dyche’s hands better than Pep Guardiola, even if the Spaniard has often found a way of breaching the backlines of his Burnley sides in times gone by.,
This Everton team feels different though, and there is a real free-spiritedness and attacking potential that continually threatens to emerge.
Should it be unlocked tonight, under a floodlit Goodison Park, we could be set to witness a historic result.
Whilst it is largely agreed that Andre Gomes must start, especially now both Idrissa Gana Gueye and Abdoulaye Doucoure have been ruled out, out wide remains a position of immense uncertainty.
In our view, Saturday’s loss to Tottenham Hotspur only proved just how much of a threat Arnaut Danjuma can be, and why he must start tonight to provide that once again against the Cityzens.
How good is Arnaut Danjuma?
Whilst few have ever doubted the quality of the Dutchman, his continued absence led many to theorise why Dyche had neglected him so frequently this season.
Well, following that recent cameo against his old loan club, there was more than enough reason to believe that the 26-year-old finisher can stand up and be a difference-maker when it is required.
After all, he has been part of sides fighting at a much higher level than Everton’s, given he scored 16 and assisted four during the campaign in which his Villarreal side stormed to the Champions League semi-finals against all the odds.
Having since been branded a ‘nightmare for defenders’ by former Premier League striker Kevin Phillips, the former AFC Bournemouth wizard would prove that last time out as he petrified his opposite man with a pace and directness that nearly bore fruit on numerous occasions.
With rumours surfacing suggesting Danjuma’s lack of game time has begun worrying his parent club, hinting of a recall, we are thus entering an odd period of uncertainty surrounding the loanee’s future.
On one hand, another fine performance could earn him a consistent starting spot heading into the new year that would satisfy the Spaniards. However, should he prove that his Spurs cameo was a rare and unlikely flash of reliable quality, it is certain that his future will remain on Dyche’s bench.
Tonight could be make or break for the Everton career of Danjuma, who will likely enjoy the opportunity to show his boss what he’s been missing.
Receive a digest of our best Everton content each week direct to your mailbox
