Everton have enjoyed a mixed start to the 2015/16 season. While the opening day draw at home to Watford was disappointing, the next match at Southampton showcased Everton at their best.
With expectations raised somewhat, Martinez’s men were brought crashing down to earth by a formidable Manchester City side, yet bounced back to beat League One side Barnsley in extra-time of the League Cup 2nd round and record a credible away draw at top six rivals Tottenham.
So who has impressed for the Blues in the opening month of the season? We take a look at the candidates for the Read Everton Player of the Month award.
5. Arouna Koné
Hands up then: before a ball had been kicked, who envisaged Koné playing a key role this season? Not me, that’s for sure. But credit where it’s due, the Ivorian’s contribution in the opening month of the campaign has been quietly impressive.
Koné’s impact off the bench helped salvage a point against Watford, while the former Wigan man also excelled the following week at Southampton. One goal and two assists is a decent return for a player who had largely been written off by the Goodison fanbase, and his presence has also allowed key striker Romelu Lukaku the space in which to flourish.
Long may it continue, Arouna.
4. John Stones
John Stones’ name has been making headlines for all the wrong reasons in recent months. It’s a testament to Stones’s professionalism, then, that the 21-year old’s performance levels have rarely dropped despite the incessant speculation surrounding his future. Elegant in possession and strong defensively- particularly in one-on-one situations- the England international was one of the Blues’ best performers against Spurs last time around. Thank Christ the window is now shut!
3. Tom Cleverley
Astute signing from Roberto Martinez, who trusted much-maligned Tom Cleverley when most others saw fit to poke fun at the then Manchester United player’s potential.
Cleverley is unlikely to dominate any Match of the Day highlights reel, but has created more chances (5) than any of his teammates and delivered consistently decent performances in the opening month of the season. Smart in possession, versatile tactically and very able off the ball, Cleverley has more than repaid the Catalan’s faith in his abilities.
Such has been his impact, the injury sustained at White Hart Lane was a big blow for the Toffees, who have lost one of their most reliable midfielders ahead of key games against the likes of Chelsea, Liverpool and Manchester United.
2. Romelu Lukaku
Second place goes to Romelu Lukaku, in light of his four goals in five appearances and improved link up play with the likes of Barkley and Koné.
The Belgian, who looks fitter and more determined than he did at this stage last season, was a constant menance against Southampton, Barnsley and City, and shoulders most of the considerable goalcoring burden at Goodison Park.
Lukaku could still improve some aspects of his game, however, the former Chelsea man looks set to break the twenty goal barrier yet again if he continues in the same vein.
1. Ross Barkley (Read Everton Player of the Month)
Our Player of the Month award goes to Ross Barkley after the prodigiously talented academy graduate recovered well from a poor first half against Watford to star in a deeper midfield role.
Two stunning goals, together with a couple of smart assists for Lukaku, hint that the Wavertree lad may now be starting to realise his obvious potential. It’s a pleasure to see Barkley performing on a more consistent basis. Well played, Ross!
Who was your Everton Player of the Month? Have your say by tweeting us @ReadEverton
