Everton vs Newcastle Player Ratings

Newcastle United picked up their first win in 2021 and the team looked much better collectively as a unit. Let’s assess each player’s performance.

Karl Darlow - 6.0

The in-form goalie got off to a shaky start but he settled into the game well from there. When Darlow was called upon, he did well to protect the Newcastle goal.

Manquillo - 6.0

Digne made life hard for the Spaniard but he effectively contained the threat down the wing. His attacking play was not the best on the day; specifically, his decision-making in the final third was a bit erratic.

Lascelles - 6.5

Lascelles has never been known as a ball-playing center back, but he did well to advance play up the field with floating passes to Wilson into Everton’s corners. His defensive play was as solid as ever.

Schar - 7.0

Schar hasn’t thrived through much of Bruce’s tenure, but his value is most apparent on days like this. Barring the occasional defensive lapse, he did well to contain Everton’s DCL and Richarlison. Elsewhere, his ability to absorb opposition pressure and keep the ball moving on the ground helped Newcastle get forward.

Lewis - 7.5

His performance on the day was deservedly capped off with a beautiful assist to Wilson in the dying stages of the game. Though he occasionally was guilty of playing too narrow in defense, he handled his man-to-man defensive duties well and linked up effectively with attacking teammates.

Hayden - 7.0

Newcastle’s only true holding-midfielder played the disruptor role to a T. He left a bit to be desired in the attack, but he was able to keep the ball moving.

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Hendrick - 6.5

The much-maligned midfielder had arguably his best performance since the season opener here. He was quick to offer an outlet to under-pressure teammates in attack and got back on defense without fail.

Shelvey - 5.5

Perhaps, he was instructed to bully James Rodriguez, but his needless fouls could have proven costly. Apart from his corner kick assist to Wilson, he didn’t really seize the opportunity to control the game. He was also a bit slow to get back on defense.

Almiron - 9.0

Wilson will get all the glory here for his goals, but this was a man of the match performance by Almiron. With Fraser and Wilson playing rather wide, Almiron was almost playing as a False-9 at times. Traditional Number 10 or False 9—whatever you want to call it— everything went through him. His pressing and defensive contributions would also make Bobby Firmino proud. A move to 4 at the back has just about always resulted in improved performances by the Paraguayan, as that usually means he will get to play centrally. Hopefully, Graeme Jones took note of this.

Fraser - 6.0

The Scottish winger made decent contributions during his time on the pitch. His link-up with Lewis down the left was good, but it wasn’t Fraser’s best game by any means.

Wilson - 8.5

Strikers with Wilson’s ability are usually not willing to work as hard as he does. His link-up and hold-up play was solid. His innate ability to get in promising positions makes him a constant goal-threat. That first goal was among the best headers you will ever see.

Clark - 6.0

The biggest compliment you could give the defender here today is that he didn’t really draw much attention. In other words, he filled in for Lascelles with minimal fuss and did his job.

Saint-Maximin - 7.0

You can always count on ASM for eye-catching football. Casual dribble moves and decisive passes are all staples for him. He did well to help secure the result.