Everton have fought valiantly for consistency so far this season under Marco Silva and are starting to reap the rewards from their efforts.
Saturday’s 3-1 victory over Brighton leaves the Toffees in the top half of the table and just a couple of points behind sixth-placed Bournemouth, providing a solid platform to build upon in the months ahead.
While the attacking players in the side like Richarlison continue to catch the headlines for their performances in front of goal, with the young Brazilian earning plenty of plaudits after hitting a brace against the Seagulls, Everton took time to hail a defensive star.
In a post on social media, the Toffees identified the strong start to the campaign that Michael Keane is enjoying in the heart of defence – which shows a significant improvement to the displays he put in last season.
While many suggested the difference has been the departure of Ashley Williams, plenty of fans heaped praise on the former Burnley man. We have gathered some of the best reactions below.
https://twitter.com/Thompsoncat88/status/1059405556442644480
Lost confidence and form next to Williams but is finally emerging as the future leader I’d hoped he become.
— Steve Claringbold (@SteveNaive1980) November 5, 2018
Finally looks like the player I hoped we had signed
— Paul 1878EFC (@paulm1979efc) November 5, 2018
My player of the season from where he’s come from to where he is now. First name on the team sheet for me immense.
— Fergus O’Connor (@Feedtheyak22) November 6, 2018
Its great to see..just adds more quality to the squad,
— Earl (@Earlofbootle) November 5, 2018
Literally like a different player, like a £30m centre half in fact………
— Rob Blackburn (@RobB_EFC) November 5, 2018