Everton manager David Moyes would’ve been keeping a close eye on England’s defeat against Senegal last night.
Iliman Ndiaye and Idrissa Gana Gueye were both involved and played a crucial role in the historic win, as Senegal became the first-ever African side to beat England.
Gueye received glowing praise from Senegal’s national media as he made several interceptions to disrupt the Three Lions’ rhythm.
David Moyes also got the chance to see Everton target Habib Diarra, who has been the talk of the transfer window.
It’s understood Leeds United have lodged a £22m bid for his signature, so Everton will have to move at pace with this deal.
Here’s how Diarra’s performance was rated by local newspaper wiwisport.
Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images
Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images
Diarra has been labelled a ‘big talent’ after his impressive performances in Ligue 1 with RC Strasbourg, and it’s understood he’s been given the green light to move on to new pastures.
The 2004-born’s talent was there for all to see at the City Ground last night, as he netted the second goal to put Senegal ahead.
MORE EVERTON STORIES
Here’s what the African media had to say about his performance.
“A fair performance for the Strasbourg midfielder. Always as generous in his efforts, never satiated to provide offensive solutions, Diarra certainly did not snatch the screen but was particularly good at what he undertook, especially in his calls.
“If he was not successful on his first two shots of the match (11th, 50th), he found the key on this opening of Koulibaly to give the advantage to Senegal when he seemed to want to centre towards Jackson.
“Already four goals in 11 selections. Replaced in the 71st minute by Pape Gueye (not scored) who made a good start with a first ball recovered in Bellingham’s feet to serve Jackson. But the note would have been different for Gueye if Bellingham’s goal had not been cancelled, he was easily caught in the duel.”
Diarra passed his Everton audition
Moyes would’ve liked what he saw from Diarra, and there’s little doubt that if it was an audition for Everton, he passed it with flying colours.
Here are his Sofascore statistics.
71 minutes
32 touches
88% pass completion
1 goal
2 duels won
1 interception
Aston Villa are also thought to be showing an interest in the 21-year-old, so it won’t be an easy deal to complete for the Friedkins.
However, the lure of playing at the new Hill Dickinson Stadium, paired with the club’s lofty ambitions under the new ownership, could be enough to seal his signature.