2MY0DNY Everton's James Tarkowski celebrates scoring the opening goal with his team mates during the Premier League match at Goodison Park, Liverpool. Picture date: Saturday February 4, 2023.
Everton star is one of 4 players in Europe to have done one thing this season, alongside Bellingham
Everton have had little to shout about in recent years, with their Premier League campaigns plagued with relegation battles, and their cup runs snuffed out in the early rounds.
So, when there is a success story to laud, Evertonians are keen to latch on and milk the moment dry of all positivity.
That has certainly been the case with Abdoulaye Doucoure, who has enjoyed a fine redemption arc after being frozen out by Frank Lampard.
‘I was close to leaving,’ the Mali international would tell Sky Sports back in March. ‘But in the end I stayed and I’m very happy because I never wanted to leave. I’m happy to be here and play and keep this team up.’
He would come good on that promise, having emerged as one of the outstanding attacking forces in Sean Dyche’s side.
In fact, Squawka has even recently detailed a statistic that shows just how prolific the 30-year-old has been, writing on Twitter: “Four players in Europe’s big-five divisions have registered 10+ shots on target, created 10+ chances, made 10+ tackles and completed 10+ take-ons in the league this season: Jude Bellingham, James Maddison, Abdoulaye Doucouré, Isco. Complete packages”.
How good is Abdoulaye Doucoure?
Such form should come as no surprise to those who follow the Toffees regularly, as he has been consistently one of their top performers for nearly 12 months now.
In fact, it was arguably his goals that saved them from the drop, with his final-day screamer against AFC Bournemouth cementing their place in the division and finalising his goal tally at an admirable five league strikes.
Already he has three in the new league campaign, with his goals from midfield proving pivotal as Dyche seeks to find a striker capable of leading the line.
Then, to further emphasise his quality, the former Watford powerhouse is also recording 1.7 key passes and 4.3 ball recoveries per game, via Sofascore.
There is seemingly little he cannot do, and his involvement in such esteemed company is indicative of such fine form.
Doucoure’s drive to stay in Merseyside despite Lampard’s dismissive attitude is admirable, and has proved huge in their retention of their Premier League status
