Koeman praises Everton's personality, Latest Football News - The New Paper
Football

Koeman praises Everton's personality

Everton manager Ronald Koeman praised his players' mentality after they rediscovered some self-belief to turn around their match with Arsenal.

The Gunners were well in control after Alexis Sanchez's opener, but failed to press home their advantage and the Toffees, low on confidence after just one win in 10 league matches, found the spark to ignite their game.

Seamus Coleman scored an important equaliser just before the break to cap a lengthy spell of growing pressure, and four minutes from the end Ashley Williams headed in the winner before Phil Jagielka was sent off for a second bookable offence in added time.

It marked a significant turnaround for Williams, who scored his first goal since arriving at Goodison in the summer, having clattered teammate Idrissa Gueye with a knee-high challenge in the build-up to Arsenal's goal - which deflected in off him.

"That is important. Every player needs to show that personality," said Koeman.

"Players like Ashley, with that experience, if they show the feeling and confidence, younger players will pick up that confidence.

"It is good to score the 2-1 because that will give the players the boost they need."

Midfielder Ross Barkley was recalled to the starting line-up after two matches on the bench and also seemed to have got the message his axing was meant to deliver.

"He was one of the players who started nervously, but everybody knows Ross can be a fantastic player," added Koeman.

"After 20 minutes he was strong, aggressive and kept the ball in midfield. In the Premier League you need to be aggressive."

After ending a run of five matches without a win, Coleman declared: "That was the Everton I know."

He told the club's official website: "Against Arsenal, that was the Everton I know and the Everton of old out there.

"I hope it's a turning point. It is important that in the next game we play, the (Merseyside) Derby, we show the same passion." - WIRE SERVICES

Ronald Koemanevertonarsenal