Alious
The 2024/25 season has been challenging for Sean Dyche’s Everton. They currently sit in 16th place in the Premier League, having accumulated just five points. Their record includes one win, two draws, and four losses, with two particularly frustrating matches where they squandered 2-0 leads to lose 3-2. Their sole victory came against Crystal Palace (2-1), while they drew against Leicester City and, most recently, Newcastle United.
In the Newcastle match, Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford played a crucial role by saving a penalty from former Everton player Anthony Gordon, securing a point for his team.
Gordon’s time at Everton was once filled with promise. Many fans saw him as a potential catalyst for the club’s resurgence. However, his departure was contentious, involving a transfer request in January 2023 after a failed move to Chelsea the previous summer. He ultimately joined Newcastle for £45 million including add-ons.
During his time at Everton, Gordon’s statistics were modest: 78 appearances, 7 goals, and 8 assists. However, he showed potential with his direct playing style and fearlessness on the ball. Since joining Newcastle, Gordon has flourished under Eddie Howe’s management, recording 11 goals and 15 assists in 73 appearances, with 10 goals and 11 assists coming in 35 Premier League games last season.
Gordon’s departure left him unpopular among Everton fans due to the circumstances of his exit. However, Everton now has a player who is arguably performing better than Gordon: Dwight McNeil.
Despite Everton’s struggles this season, McNeil has been exceptional under Dyche’s guidance. The 24-year-old winger has already contributed 3 goals and 2 assists in seven Premier League matches. According to Sofascore, he leads Everton players in goal involvements, outperforming second-placed Dominic Calvert-Lewin by two.
McNeil’s performance this season has surpassed that of Gordon at Newcastle. While Gordon has scored twice without any assists in the Premier League, McNeil’s statistics are more impressive. Comparing their underlying stats via Squawka, McNeil creates an average of 3.4 chances per game compared to Gordon’s 2.3. McNeil also completes an average of 9 forward passes per game, significantly more than Gordon’s 4.8.
Football statistician Statman Dave has described McNeil as an “underrated” player. Everton fans hope that McNeil can maintain his excellent form as the team aims to accumulate more points and distance themselves from the relegation zone.
Alious
