This article is part of Football FanCast’s Pundit View series, which provides opinion and analysis on recent quotes from journalists, pundits, players and managers…
Former England international Danny Mills believes Fabian Delph will reclaim his spot in the starting XI after returning from injury.
What did he say?
Delph was brought back into the first-team against Watford in midweek after missing the last two league games through injury. Although Delph did not steal the show on Tuesday, he did help Everton get back to winning ways, playing 90 minutes in the 2-0 victory.
However, despite the form of Tom Davies and Andre Gomes against West Ham United two weeks ago, Mills believes Silva will trust in Delph instead.
He told Football Insider when asked if the Englishman would come back in: “I think so. Delph has got great energy, great experience in that position as much as anybody else.
“He is a winner, leadership qualities as well, authority on the pitch. I don’t have any doubt, if he’s fit I would play him week in, week out in that position.”
Go with experience
Davies has started the last two games in Delph’s absence but put in two very contrasting performances. Against the Hammers, Davies looked to be starting to build a positive partnership with Andre Gomes in the 2-0 win.
However, against Brighton & Hove Albion a week later, the two looked out of sorts and failed to make an impact in the 3-2 loss. Now, with Delph back, it makes sense to bring him in alongside Gomes.
The Englishman has proved to be a great defensive asset with his average of 2.5 tackles per game and a creative addition with 4.7 long balls per match. Plus, with his proven experience at Manchester City and with England, Delph brings unrivalled experience to the team.
Indeed, Davies did do well against West Ham, but it wouldn’t be a surprise if Delph stepped into his place now he’s back in the fold.