Jamie Carragher has been impressed at Rafael Benitez’s impact at Everton, stating the Spaniard knows what the club’s fans want.
Rafael Benitez has silenced his critics after an impressive start to life at Everton. Spaniard’s appointment attracted criticism from many corners, including sections of the Evertonian fan base. A tally of ten points from four games has vindicated the manager, as he seems to have taken the club to the next level.
They only dropped points in the 2-2 draw to Leeds. Otherwise, Everton look like a different side when comparing their style and energy to Benitez’ predecessors Carlo Ancelotti, Ronald Koeman and Marco Silva. As things stand, things look bright on the blue side of Merseyside.
However, the time leading to Benitez’ appointment wasn’t all glossy, with heavy criticism for crossing over from the Red corner of Merseyside after a long stint as Liverpool manager in his past. Moreover, he received threats asking him not to sign with Everton.
Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher was one of the pundits who gave a mixed bag opinion on Benitez signing up for Everton. He did not criticise the move but vaguely said, ‘Sit back and watch it all unfold’.
However, Carragher is at it again, only this time, he seems to be explicitly backing Benitez to perform well at Everton. Merseyside publication, Read Everton published quotes from the former defender where he praised the Spaniard’s impact at Goodison Park.
Carragher said, “Everton are being physical, getting the ball forward and using that Goodison crowd. He made a point when he initially got the job in that he knows the city and Liverpool people. I think what he meant was the football people, whether Everton or Liverpool and what type of football the supporters want.
“Rafa knows the type of football. Now, other managers, I’m not sure. Ronald Koeman, Carlo Ancelotti, Marco Silva. I think Benitez, even though he’s a Spaniard, the fact he’s managed Liverpool and has been around the city, he knows what Everton fans want more than any other manager that’s been brought in. It’s that energetic, in your face, that’s what Everton demand and that’s what Liverpool demand too.”
One observation of Everton’s start to the season is reminiscent of the last term when under Carlo Ancelotti, they were sitting on top after a great beginning. However, their form tailed off as the season progressed, and hopefully, Benitez does not lead the team into that territory. Only later in the season and after some more good performances can we rate his genuine impact at Goodison Park.
