Everton got off to a perfect start in the new Premier League season on Saturday, with a 1-nil victory over Stoke City at Goodison Park ensuring the Toffees won a first campaign opener since 2012.
That was a 1-0 win over Manchester United that had a certain Wayne Rooney. 5 years later, the England international striking legend is handing his boyhood club all 3 points on his 2nd debut with a fine header that should be in contention for goal of the month.
While Rooney deservedly got the official Man of the Match prize, another summer arrival Michael Keane equally deserves the plaudits and accolades.
The £30million defender was solid rock at the back for Everton, putting in an impressive debut performance.
Keane made 8 clearances, 1 block, 3 interceptions, won 100% of his tackles, 4 out of 5 duels, and 3 of his 4 aerial duels.
The former Burnley man also highlighted his ball playing abilities, completing 84.8% of his passes as he established a strong partnership with Phil Jagielka and Ashley Williams in a 3-man backline.
With such performances, Everton can be assured of having a reliable defensive rock at the back, and Keane could end up being one the reasons the club would break into the top 6 at the end of the season.
