Everton’s defense was praised for consistency and organization last season, but one caveat needed to be addressed.
Finishing with the fourth best defense behind the trio of Liverpool, Manchester City and Arsenal is a remarkable achievement that was largely due to Sean Dyche’s tactics and the performances of key figures such as James Tarkowski, Jarrad Branthwaite and Jordan Pickford, among others.
Still, it’s an even better performance in hindsight considering they never really solidified the right-back position. Nathan Patterson started the season there but failed to produce consistent performances to earn Dyche’s trust, while veterans Ashley Young and Seamus Coleman put in good but still limited performances. Then there was Ben Godfrey, who enjoyed a strong spell in the second half of the season but has since left for Atalanta.
There is also the fact that their full-backs add little to the quality of attack, with Vitali Mykolenko on the left providing stability but little invention in the opposite direction. That’s why the latest links from Tutto Mercato Web are intriguing as they target young right-back Jackson Tchatchou from Hellas Verona.
Interestingly, he signed a three-year contract after making his move from Charleroi final on June 3, but the Italian side will be hoping to make an immediate profit after signing him for just €2m [£1.69m]. Everton have been linked with a move that would cost around €8m [£6.77m], which would certainly be cost-effective and stay within their current transfer plan of signing cheaper players.
Tchatchoua, 22, is a Cameroonian international who came through in Belgium before joining Verona on loan last season. He played 27 times and registered two assists, while playing most of his games at right-back – but he was also more forward in midfield and on the left wing once. While his numbers leave a lot to be desired, there are a few standouts.
For example, he was rated highly for his interception and dribbling combination and clearance, but he was particularly highly rated for passing in the box, which will certainly help Everton create additional danger. He was also very rarely in possession or lost control of the ball and lost some aerial duels.
Overall, he is a sharp, physically strong defender who has great potential. The Premier League would be a significant step up, but Dyche has improved Everton’s defense this season and having a right-back who is reliable and able to contribute in attack will certainly serve them well as they look to progress as a bottom-placed club. table. .