TalkSPORT pundit Gabriel Agbonlahor has torn into Everton striker Neal Maupay after a below-par display in his side’s defeat to Aston Villa.
How did Maupay play against Aston Villa?
The Frenchman delivered a poor performance as Everton disappointed at Goodison Park, and was physically bullied, winning just one of his seven attempted aerial duels as per SofaScore.
Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s absence was notable as Maupay struggled to make an impact, and this led to criticism of the £15m signing from Brentford.
Speaking on TalkSPORT, Agbonlahor questioned what Maupay offers physically or tactically, claiming that his only notable contribution was winding opposition players up.
“I think the big standout for me for Everton was the lack of a striker. Neal Maupay, he can’t hold the ball up. hasn’t got to pace in behind, and doesn’t show it, he can’t finish,” he stated.
“He’s just a striker who tries to wind up the opposition and today that didn’t work for him, and having Demarai Gray on the bench didn’t make sense to me.”
Should Everton have signed a striker?
Everton’s lack of transfer incomings in January could prove critical as they attempt to avoid relegation, and they should have added more goals to the side.
Calvert-Lewin’s fitness record has been poor in recent years, and he and Maupay have just one goal each to their name this season.
In yesterday’s game he lost seven duels, lost the ball nine times and only had a pass completion percentage of 73%. He also had less touches than Jordan Pickford with 28 and 32 respectively (Sofascore).
The club did recall young forward Ellis Simms from his loan at Sunderland, but it may be too soon for the 22-year-old to make an immediate impact in the team.
After also losing Anthony Gordon to Newcastle, the lack of goals upfront could harm Everton’s chances of survival, and with Maupay continuing to disappoint, there remains little solution within the current squad.
