Everton recorded a superb 3-0 victory away at Southampton this afternoon. Who stood out for the Blues? Here are our player ratings:
Tim Howard
Made perhaps the telling intervention of the match at 0-0, as he blocked Mané’s sweetly struck effort. Under fire but came out fighting, and will silence his critics if he continues in the same vain. 7
Seamus Coleman
Not vintage Coleman by any means- the Irishman’s ability to influence the game in the final third was somewhat diminished by Southampton’s Shane Long, who had been tasked with tracking the former Sligo man, yet the right back still defended well throughout and also made a fatigue-defying late run to set up Barkley’s third. An improved showing from the Irishman. 7
John Stones
Composed performance from England’s best young centre back in front of the watching Roy Hodgson. Stones’ reading of the game was as immaculate as ever, while his positioning and distribution were also top drawer. We don’t give out tens but this was just about as faultless display as you’re likely to find. Rolls Royce of a defender. 9
Phil Jagielka
Typically committed performance from the Everton skipper, who contained the dangerous Pelle for much of the game. Jagielka made countless blocks and timely interceptions, but could still do with being a bit more commanding in the air- the Blues remain vulnerable from crosses into the box, for which the centre-half must take his fair share of the blame. Got lucky with one such error in the first half, when Pelle headed wide after the Italian had evaded his attentions, yet dealt comfortably with anything else Saints had to throw at him. 8
Brendan Galloway
Once again coped admirably in the absence of Leighton Baines. Galloway’s mature display contained glimpses of real potential, with his defensive capabilities once again coming to the fore. Will no doubt move to left-sided centre back in time, as his contribution in the final third is somewhat negligible. 7
Gareth Barry
Limited the space in between defence and midfield much better than in the previous game, and remained calm on the ball despite Southampton’s energetic pressing. A few lapses in concentration, together with several needless fouls in dangerous positions, but steady overall. 6
James McCarthy
Another who disappointed slightly against Watford. This time around, however, McCarthy was back to his former self: snapping into tackles, harrying the opposition and breaking forward from deep. When the shackles are off we truly do see the best of the tireless midfielder. 7
Tom Cleverley
Tidy, energetic showing from the summer signing, whose acquisition looks increasingly shrewd as each week passes. The Blues are, quite simply, a better, more balanced side when the versatile former Manchester United man plays. 7
Ross Barkley
Different class breaking from deep in a counter-attacking system designed to get the best out of his mercurial ability. Should have scored in the first half, only to snatch at his effort, but more than made amends with a sublime performance full of attacking intent and end product.
One assist, another superb goal. Barkley’s confidence is starting to flood back after a troublesome second season. On this evidence, the Wavertree-born midfielder is going to be difficult to stop in the coming weeks. 9
Arouna Koné
Much-maligned figure going some way to winning his detractors (including me) over. Held the ball up well and allowed Lukaku the space needed in which to thrive. Fantastic assist for the first goal, lively throughout, but will need to find the net regularly to be a real hit on Merseyside. Deserves to retain his place for next weekend’s games against Manchester City, on this evidence. 8
Romelu Lukaku (Man of the Match)
A different player when alongside someone to shoulder the considerable attacking burden, Lukaku’s first half brace and general ability on the break outlined his true value to Blues boss Roberto Martinez. Will continue to excel if given the support he deserves. Close to perfection today. 9
SUBS:
Steven Naismith- Little time to make an impact. N/A
Gerard Deulofeu- As above. N/A
