Evertonians are learning that they shouldn’t put a cap on what Ben Godfrey is capable of.
Since joining from Norwich City ahead of the current campaign, the young defender has been one of the big surprises of the campaign, endearing himself to supporters with his aggression and athleticism, as well as showing the awareness and maturity to play in a number of different roles.
Having operated at right-back, left-back and in a centre-back partnership already this season at Everton, on Sunday at West Ham United Godfrey was deployed on the right of a centre-back trio.
It was a position that gave him license to move forward midway through the first half and spear a brilliant pass into the path of Dominic Calvert-Lewin, who calmly finished.
“Dom makes great runs, I put the ball into some space, he is quick and strong and it was never in doubt he would finish it, with the form he’s been in,” said Godfrey after the game, per the club’s official website. “I see it every day in training, everyone at the Club will tell you how hard he works, it is no coincidence that when it comes to matchday, he puts away chances like that.”
Big win🔵 pic.twitter.com/c9zdJqBmRk
— Ben Godfrey (@BenG0dfrey) May 9, 2021
Ben Godfrey just continuing his versatility by now stepping up as James Rodriguez's replacement
What a pass! #EFC
— Adam Jones (@Adam_Jones94) May 9, 2021
The goal proved to be the winner on the day and kept alive Everton’s hopes of European football. It also gave Toffees supporters another reason to be excited about Godfrey, as he showcased a composure and vision in possession when striding out from the back.
If Everton to develop into a more possession-based team next season when higher quality players come through the door this summer, that ability is something Godfrey will need to showcase more of going forward. With the Toffees happy to sit on the back foot for a lot of their best wins this season, there hasn’t been a chance for him to amble into midfield quite as much as he might like.
With his tenacity, raw speed, versatility and resourcefulness in possession, the 23-year-old doesn’t seem to have any real weaknesses in his game.
While there’s still a lot of developing for Godfrey to do before he becomes one of the best defenders in the division, all the tools are there for him to scale those heights. Four more big displays for Everton this season to help their European charge would ensure he remains on that exciting trajectory.