Gary Neville was full of praise for one Everton player after Sean Dyche’s side landed a historic Merseyside Derby win over Liverpool on Wednesday evening.
Goals from Jarrad Branthwaite and Dominic Calvert-Lewin secured the Toffees an invaluable three points and inflicted a severe dent in the Reds’ Premier League title hopes.
The 2-0 victory was utterly deserved. Dyche’s men, particularly in the first half, played with an energy and aggression that was difficult to contend with. Had the hosts gone in at half-time level, they would’ve been disappointed.
Everton have now moved seven points clear of Nottingham Forest and eight points clear of Luton Town, who occupy the final relegation berth.
Gary Neville singles out ‘on fire’ Everton ace who Liverpool couldn’t handle
There were several standout performances for the Toffees. Branthwaite and James Tarkowski were immense at the heart of the defence. James Garner and Idrissa Gana Gueye were tireless in midfield, and Jack Harrison and Dwight McNeil were superb in transition.
But, talking on Sky Sports commentary, Neville lauded Calvert-Lewin’s display at the top end of the pitch.
The 27-year-old rose highest to head home midway through the second half to double Everton’s lead. Neville felt Liverpool’s defence couldn’t handle the Englishman.
“They can’t handle Calvert-Lewin,” he said.
“He’s had such a difficult season. He’s got three in his last four. He’s beating Liverpool’s centre-backs up. It could’ve been and maybe should’ve been three. He’s [Calvert-Lewin] is on fire.”
Dominic Calvert-Lewin shows his full worth against Liverpool
When Calvert-Lewin is at his best, he’s unplayable. Very few players are as complete in the number nine role.Ian Wright has previously alluded to his all-round ability.
Tonight, he wasn’t up against a lowly team. He was up against two of the most formidable central defenders in Europe. Virgil van Dijk will head back across Stanley Park, knowing he met his match.
The challenge now is for the Everton striker to maintain this form. Fitness and injury problems have haunted him far too often throughout his career.
Dyche must wrap him up in cotton wool before the upcoming fixtures against Brentford and Luton Town.