Everton, who spent lavishly on their summer and winter recruitments, have had a fairly disappointing season, currently being placed at 9th after steadying the boat slightly. With a huge war chest following the departure of Romelu Lukaku, it can be safely said that the Toffees have not hit the bull’s eye too often with their choices.
According to reports, the Toffees are eyeing a move for 24-year old Bristol City star Joe Bryan, in an attempt to fortify the left-back position with Leighton Baines not getting any younger. The player has caught the eye of many as Newcastle United and Aston Villa are both keen on his signature. His performances have been quite stellar this season, helping Bristol City edge closer to the play-off spots as they sit on 7th in the table currently.
Left back, Centre Midfield, Left Wing
Predominantly a left back, he can operate further up the field as well. He has started a few games on the left wing and had a huge impact scoring twice and assisting once. Although favouring to shoot with his left, he has a deadly right-footed shot as well. He is for sure a manager’s dream with such attacking intent and defensive qualities that he possesses.
Racking up his numbers
Joe Bryan has featured in 35 of Bristol City’s 38 games thus far, clearly proving the faith Lee Johnson has in him. Two of his 3 goals this term have come in crunch situations, both of which have resulted in 2-1 victories for The Robins. He earned the Man of the Match award in an important 2-0 win against QPR. If these weren’t enough, his thunderous strike against Manchester United helped them to a 2-1 win over the Red Devils and into the semi-finals of the EFL Cup where they went down fighting to a strong Manchester City side. Having broken the deadlock on numerous occasions and risen to the challenge in the big games, he sure looks a bright talent ready to take up the grand stage.
Left-back the need of the hour for Everton
A major portion of the proceeds from the sale of Lukaku has gone in their attacking recruitments, to fill the void left by the Belgian. Keane, being the only high profile defensive signing, Sam Allardyce could be looking to add to that list to strengthen his defence and especially his left back position that is currently short of players. With Leighton Baines and Luke Garbutt the only two natural left backs, Bryan’s induction into this squad could do a world of good for The Toffees. Despite the drastic change in quality from the Championship to the Premier League, the Bristol City star has shown against the big guns that he is ready to step it up in England’s elite competition.
Should Everton move for the youngster?
Stats Courtesy: Whoscored
