Everton recorded an emphatic 3-0 victory against Manchester United this Sunday afternoon. Here are our TTT player ratings for the boys in blue:
Tim Howard– An excellent performance from the American stopper, who seems to have put his early season woes behind him once and for all. Indeed, one particular save to deny Rooney at 2-1 spoke volumes about Howard’s new-found form. Still has much to offer if he can replicate this performance between now and the end of the season. 8
Seamus Coleman– Targeted as a weakness by van Gaal’s side, but stood firm as the United second half onslaught failed to properly materialise. Caught out positionally on several occasions, yet provided a good outlet in attack and grew into the contest. 7
John Stones– I described Stones as a Rolls Royce of a defender in my pre-match preview and this was another display of remarkable composure from the 20-year-old. Elegant on the ball, immaculate in the tackle and commanding in the air, the Barnsley-born youngster capped an immensely impressive showing with his first Everton goal- a bullet header from an inswinging Baines corner. The future for Everton and England. 9
Phil Jagielka– A superb display of commitment from the revitalised skipper. Jagielka has been outstanding in the second half of the season, and has recently seen his partnership with John Stones blossom into something of real potential. Some, including myself, questioned his leadership credentials after the 3-6 humiliation at home to Chelsea. Not any more… 8
Leighton Baines– Solid performance from the one-time United target. The Kirkby-born left back delivered well from set pieces and eventually grabbed his reward with a wonderful assist for Stones’ header. Baines also defended better than of late, stopping United crosses into the box with regularity. 8
James McCarthy– Everton’s Man of the Match, in my eyes. The tireless Irishman covered every blade of Goodison grass in an attempt to stifle the away side’s talented midfield schemers, and provided valuable protection for the central defence. Has been given more license to roam forward as of late, and is starting to trouble opposition defenders with his direct runs from deep. Starting to show signs that he’s developing into the complete midfielder under Martinez’s tutelage. 9
Gareth Barry- Another who has improved in recent weeks. This was the Barry of last season- the veteran shielded the back four well and intelligently orchestrated attacks from his holding midfield role. Only once did he lapse back into the hesitant figure we saw at the beginning of the campaign, as former Blue Fellaini bundled him off the ball in the final third and fired over with the goal at his mercy. 7
Ross Barkley– A lively performance from the young starlet, whose displays have improved since he was restored to his normal attacking midfield role. Barkley drove forward with purpose whenever the opportunity presented itself, while his decision making seemed a touch sharper than it has been for most of this disappointing season. Set up the third as his pass for Lukaku eventually ran through to Mirallas. 7.5
Aaaron Lennon– Typically industrious performance from the on loan Spurs winger. Lennon tracked back when necessary and also offered substantial presence going forward. Roberto Martinez and co. must look to tie down the now fan favourite when the season ends. 7
Leon Osman– Restored to the starting lineup in favour of Mirallas, and repaid his manager’s faith with an assured display. Osman used the ball well and lead by example on the pitch. The 33-year-old failed, however, to provide Leighton Baines with defensive cover in the first half and faltered somewhat in the second period. 7
Romelu Lukaku– A decent return to the starting 11 for the big Belgian. Lukaku rarely threatened to score but held the ball up well and worked the channels intelligently. His goal threat and overall presence have been missed by the Goodison side, as replacement Arouna Koné flattered to deceive in his absence. 7
SUBS:
Kevin Mirallas- Bright cameo from the Belgian. Took his goal well and brought a fine save from De Gea after a fantastic run and shot. Mirallas, who has now struck 11 times this season, remains a real threat for opposition defences, and must, in truth, be persuaded to remain at Goodison this summer. 8
Steven Naismith– N/A
Arouna Kone– N/A
