Despite Everton hitting a rough patch of form, four of the club’s players are still set to figure at the 2022 World Cup.
It speaks volumes for Everton’s recent recruitment that three of the four arrived this summer. With a mix of players representing some strong nations, there is real potential for the Everton quartet to make a big impact at the tournament:
Jordan Pickford – England
In a turbulent period for Everton, Jordan Pickford has become a reliable performer the Blues can count on, a far cry from the error-prone erratic goalkeeper he was once known as.
Those unfamiliar with Pickford’s strong performances over the last two seasons may have started calling for Aaron Ramsdale or Nick Pope to be granted an extended run between the sticks, but the former Sunderland keeper looks to remain first choice.
Gareth Southgate has shown confidence in Pickford with the number one jersey, and the England camp will be hoping the Blues stopper repeats his Euro 2020 form.
Conor Coady – England
England assistant Steve Holland declared Conor Coady the ‘player of the tournament’ during Euro 2020, despite not ever actually getting onto the pitch. This is down to the positive effect Coady has in the dressing room, something he has also been praised for at club level.
The on-loan Wolves defender is also in the squad on merit however after seamlessly slotting into the Everton backline after his summer move. The 29-year-old has formed an effective partnership with James Tarkowski, who himself may feel disgruntled to have missed out.
There are several quality defenders in the squad and minutes may be hard to come by for Coady, but he will likely still find other ways to contribute.
Idrissa Gana Gueye – Senegal
With over 90 caps to his name, Idrissa Gueye has been indispensable for his nation in recent years, so it is no surprise he is on the Senegal plane.
The 33-year-old moved back to the Toffees from PSG in the summer and the increased game time will no doubt boost his sharpness heading into what could be his last major tournament.
Gueye starred in midfield as Senegal won the African Cup of Nations last year, and while repeat success in the World Cup might be slightly out of reach for the West-African side, they will see their group as one they can qualify from as they battle with Ecuador, the Netherlands and the hosts Qatar.
Amadou Onana – Belgium
Since his summer move from Lille, Amadou Onana is slowly becoming a fan favourite on Merseyside. The 21-year-old is slightly raw, but with every game he develops more experience and has been an effective player from midfield with his bursting runs and impactful tackles.
Former Everton manager Roberto Martinez will be desperate to finally win some silverware with what remains of Belgium’s golden generation, and Onana will add some youth and excitement to one of the tournament favourites.
The Red Devils will be expected to top their group and have plenty of competition for places in midfield, but the physical ability of Onana gives him the chance to offer something different to the technical wizardry of the likes of Kevin De Bruyne.
