Andy Gray, who used to play for Everton before his presenting days, has revealed that he is not too gutted about Richarlison’s move to Spurs.
Seeking better cover for Antonio Conte’s free-scoring front three of Kane, Son, and Kulusevski, Tottenham signed Richarlison this summer in a deal worth an initial £50m with a further £10m in potential add-ons (Sky Sports).
The Brazilian forward scored an impressive 10 goals and recorded five assists in the Premier League for Everton last season, but the stats don’t tell the whole story (Transfermarkt). Many of those goals were decisive in the Toffees’ escape from relegation.
His winner against Chelsea, and equalisers against Leicester, Crystal Palace, and Arsenal all proved vital as he helped Everton win enough points to avoid the drop.
Richarlison’s work for Everton went further than just goal contributions as Journalist Adam Jones told Football London: “On and off the pitch he’s been a shining example of someone fans can really look up to as being selfless, hard-working and dedicated to his role.
“One of the big issues that Evertonians have highlighted in an early pursuit to replace Richarlison is how they will fill the energy that he brings and the strong defensive aspects he provides at the top end of the pitch.”
Speaking on whether or not he is worried about life after Richarlison for Everton, Andy Gray told Talksport (22/07/22 10:00 to 13:00): “I’m not. Yes, he had a good finish to the season last year. Yes, he got five or six goals (in the final few months).
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“But I think that papered over a lot of problems we had with Richarlison. So I’m not that disappointed he’s gone if we invest the £60 million wisely.”
Spurs Web Opinion:
Everton will struggle to find someone who can replace the goal contributions and defensive work lost through Richarlison’s sale. While his numbers last season may not have dazzled, he provided various crucial moments for Everton with little help from his teammates.
Tottenham fans can expect a hungry and motivated Richarlison, ready to prove the doubters wrong by showing them that he’s a Champions League level player. With better players around him, he’s primed to take his game up a level.
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