Match Coverage

Sean Dyche reveals £15m Everton player was actually playing through illness vs Leicester

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Everton are still searching for their first Premier League victory of the season having drawn to Leicester City on Saturday afternoon at the King Power Stadium.

Sean Dyche’s men went ahead early on through Iliman Ndiaye before Stephy Mavididi levelled in the 73rd minute for the hosts.

Everton had to withstand a lot of late pressure but managed to see the point over the line, which has moved them off the foot of the table.

Speaking post-match, Dyche revealed that one of his players was actually playing through illness.

Brentford FC v Everton FC - Premier League
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Sean Dyche says James Garner was ill

Speaking to BBC Sport, Dyche revealed that James Garner was actually ill but had to be thrown in last-minute.

“James Garner was ill and got thrown in last minute and played excellently,” the Everton boss said.

“Youngy and Illiman produced some superb play for the goal, lots more positives.”

The former Manchester United midfielder had to play in an unfamiliar role at right-back but for large portions of the clash, he was able to contain the lively Mavididi.

James Garner statistics

Here are Garner’s incredible statistcs against Leicester, as per Sofascore.

The 23-year-old amplified his tremendous selflessness yesterday, putting the team before himself and those are the characteristics needed in a relegation battle – which looks a likely scenario at this stage.

The Toffees are next in action on Saturday afternoon as they play host to fellow strugglers Crystal Palace at Goodison Park.