Bernard came away with praise from supporters after Everton’s 2-0 win over West Ham United. The 27-year-old scored an outstanding solo goal from a narrow angle and was hailed a ‘little magician’ for Saturday’s performance on social media.
Against the Hammers, Bernard played for 90 minutes, made 59 touches, created one chance, completed 71% of his 31 passes, had one shot, whipped in four crosses, made four tackles, drew one foul and made two successful dribbles.
Absolutely brilliant today – that partnership with Digne is why you should be playing every week.
— Jamie Rowland (@rowloefc) October 19, 2019
Little magician you lad’ brilliant little player ????
— SteP……. ⚽️ (@PapaSmurf1878) October 19, 2019
You should never have been dropped…… Fantastic footballer
— Jason Conlan ???????????????????????????? (@Woolyblue) October 19, 2019
Well done today Bernie, brilliant goal & good work all round ???????? nsno!!!
— ☮kayy. (@Kayevansxx) October 19, 2019
Brilliant today & a great goal too …… Well done ????????????????
— leeG1878 (@duncsablue) October 19, 2019
So many good performances from #EFC here – notably the energy of Richarlison, Davies, Walcott and Bernard. So evident players are fighting for manager and shirt. Huge transformation in mentality on recent weeks.
— David Maddock (@MaddockMirror) October 19, 2019
The Brazilian international has made eight appearances in all competitions this season, scoring two goals. Bernard has created six chances, made 12 successful dribbles, hit the target with 50% of his shots and made 12 tackles, but he found himself out of the squad in recent weeks.
Since September, Bernard has made only two Premier League starts from six and racked up 178 minutes of Premier League football from a possible 540 (33%).
He came off the bench against Wolverhampton Wanderers (September 1) & Bournemouth (September 15), was left out of the matchday squad against Manchester City (September 28) and was an unused substitute against Burnley (October 5).
Bernard appears to have returned to form after returning to the starting lineup and should keep his place against Brighton & Hove Albion next Saturday.