Jamie Carragher was wowed by what he saw one Everton player do during the 2-0 win over Nottingham Forest today.
Sean Dyche’s men bounced back from their 6-0 loss to Chelsea with a massive three points against their relegation rivals.
Long-distance strikes fromIdrissa Gana Gueye and Dwight McNeil saw the Toffees secure what could prove to be three invaluable points.
The victory has moved Dyche’s men five points clear of the bottom three. Everton also hold a game in hand on their closest rivals.
It was by no means plain sailing for the Blues, with Forest having numerous penalty claims waved away. Furthermore, Nuno Espirito Santo’s men squandered several guilt-edge chances, particularly in the second half.
Jamie Carragher wowed by what he saw £30m Everton star do against Nottingham Forest
Forest also threatened in the first period, and the hosts had Jordan Pickford to thank for preventing what looked like an inevitable equaliser.
Chris Wood’s point-blank strike was brilliantly kept out by the £30million signing – a moment that Carragher lauded.
Speaking on Sky Sports’ half-time analysis, he said: “That’s an unbelievable save. One of the best saves you’ll see this season. Point bank. He makes himself big. The only thing that was better was the celebration. The ball was still in play! The game is still going on!”
Everton now close to Premier League survival after Nottingham Forest victory
That victory feels like a significant one. Five points is a considerable gap considering the rate of points Forest, Luton Town and Burnley are picking up.
If Everton win their game in hand, it’s hard to envisage the 18th-placed Hatters making up the ground required.
Dyche knew a reaction was non-negotiable, and that was precisely what he got from his players. It was by no means vintage, but at this point in the season, Evertonians aren’t overly concerned over the manner of their victories.
Up next is the Merseyside Derby on Wednesday evening. With Liverpool still pushing for the Premier League title, a win would feel all the sweeter on the blue side of Stanley Park.