Michael Keane believes Everton’s commanding 2-0 win over Fulham at Hill Dickinson Stadium was the result of the Blues perfectly executing their tactical plan against the visitors.
The defender sealed the win with a well-placed header from a corner nine minutes from time, ensuring Everton claimed a valuable three points.
Speaking to evertontv, the 32-year-old said “It feels great. I think it was very much needed. We’ve been frustrated lately not to pick up more results and it feels like we’ve not had a win for a while so it was really important today – and I thought you could tell. The lads were really at it straight away and we were all really determined [to get the win], so we’re very pleased to get the three points.”
Reflecting on his goal, Keane highlighted the team’s focus on set pieces as a key part of their preparation.
“We work on set pieces a hell of a lot. We plan everything that we do. We’re trying to get more goals in the team, whether that’s through the strikers, the midfielders, the defenders on set plays. I fancied myself to get a chance today and thankfully when it came, I took it.”
The result also marked a personal milestone for Keane, who made his 350th league appearance.
He added: “I’ve always believed in myself. I’ve always believe in what I can bring and I know I had a couple of years where I’ve not played a lot. I’ve been fortunate this season to get the opportunity, so I’m really enjoying myself and I think 350 games is good going but hopefully there are plenty more left to come.”