Who’s caught your eye?

By Chris Kirwan
October 11 2002

Everton have had a mixed start to the season and predictably sit in mid-table. Several players have caught the eye, and in some cases have cemented their place ahead of more senior players. So who has caught the eye so far?

Kevin Campbell (9 appearances, 5 goals) : At the start of the season Campbell was the target for the Goodison boo-boys. But his start to the season has quickly shut them up. He has shown that last year’s injury problems are behind him; he is looking fit and sharp, and has held the ball up well, bringing the midfield and Radzinski into the game. After scoring

Tomasz Radzinksi (9 appearances, 2 goals): Radzinski has made an excellent start to the season, and has the form of Campbell to thank for it. Radzinski is at his best when he has an effective target man alongside him, and his runs have provided the midfield with a valuable outlet. His finishing still leaves a lot to be desired, but his partnership with Campbell is looking an excellent one, and it is hard to see Chadwick, Rooney, Ferguson or Moore breaking it up.

Li Tie (9 appearances) : The arrival of Li Tie and Li Weifeng to the Everton setup was greeted with cynicism that the Chinese duo were merely mascots for Kejian, and that neither were likely to feature week in week out. But Li Tie’s start to the season has put him ahead of the likes of Carsley and Linderoth for the central midfield spot. Li Tie certainly shares the work ethic that Moyes is instilling into all of his players, but he can also distribute the ball effectively. He is allowing Gravesen a bit more freedom, but still has to be careful about losing the ball in danger areas.

Tony Hibbert (9 appearances) : Hibbert is vastly improved on last year, and on current form it’s hard to see how Steve Watson will regain his place. Testament to his improvement was his marshalling of Ryan Giggs at Old Trafford. He still has his shaky moments, such as the second half against Spurs, but that is to be expected of a young player. Hibbert looks comfortable going forward, and is sound in defence. His call up to the England U-21s was well deserved and if Moyes can get a top quality right-sided midfielder then the Blues will be dangerous down the right flank.

Mark Pembridge (7 appearances) : Pre-season there was a great deal of debate about who would play left wing for the Blues after Blomqvist had been released. But Pembo made a cracking start to the season, getting the Blues’ first of the season against Spurs. Pembridge always gives his all for the cause, and can never be accused of giving less than 100%. He is a player who knows his limitations, he rarely attempts to go past a full-back, but crucially he provides cover for the left-back allowing them to overlap. He also possesses a cracking left foot that plays an essential role in Everton’s set pieces.

All of the above have played their part in Everton’s solid start to the season, but if pushed I’d choose Kevin Campbell. He has shown real character and determination to come back after last season’s disappointments, and hopefully he can keep knocking in the goals and possibly get to the 20 goal mark. Vote for your choice in the poll.