Everton had some standout performances against Brighton, but David Moyes singled out one star who really impressed him.
Jack Grealish was dynamite on his Everton debut as he proved exactly why Moyes has brought him in.
Grealish inspired the Iliman Ndiaye connection as Toffees fans have something to look forward to from their wide areas.
It was a really promising start to the Hill Dickinson era, and there is plenty to be built upon now.
But considering the brilliant individual performances, the Scotsman could only give his plaudits to one star.
David Moyes and Everton players clapping the fans.
Photo by Todd Kirkland – Premier League/Getty Images
David Moyes praises James Garner as ‘fabulous’ after left-back display for Everton vs Brighton
There have been concerns over the start to the season for Everton with their continuous injuries.
Vitaliy Mykolenko is on the sidelines, meaning James Garner has had to fill in at left-back, but the 24-year-old certainly didn’t disappoint, netting the second goal, topping off a brilliant display.
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In the eyes of Moyes, he didn’t put a foot wrong, as speaking after the win in a post-match press conference, the Everton boss was full of praise.
“We’ve got half a botched team out today, so to get a result is great. James Garner’s performance was fabulous.”
His performance has given the Blues boss some thinking time, as Garner looked head and shoulders above everyone aside from Grealish.
James Garner had 69 touches for Everton vs Brighton which was more than any Toffees player
Question marks were raised from Moyes’ decision to play the midfielder at left-back, but he’s proven the doubters wrong.
Garner could have played right back as well, proving that the Toffees star is one to keep hold of due to his versatility.
His quality from the left certainly can’t be questioned, as the 24-year-old had more touches than any other Blues player, and thrived in his short-term role.
Minutes played 90
Goals 1
Touches 69 (most in-game for Everton)
Chances created 2
Tackles won % 100%
Defensive contributions 12
James Garner’s statistics for Everton in 2-0 win vs Brighton, as per FotMob
Even though the performance was strong, Moyes will be wanting a right back still, but he certainly doesn’t have to be concerned about his left side with Garner and Grealish.
Very promising signs have come from the Brighton win, as Wolves away next Saturday is looking like an intriguing fixture.