Opinion: Unlikely Everton hero leads the turnaround following ‘brilliant’ performances.

Ashley Young has been named in Troy Deeney’s BBC Team of the Week (22 October) following his standout performance in Everton’s 2-0 victory over Ipswich Town on October 19.

The 39-year-old’s display was crucial in helping Sean Dyche’s team secure their second clean sheet in three matches.

After a disappointing red card in a 3-0 defeat to Brighton on the opening day of the season, Young has made a remarkable comeback.

Deeney praised Young in his column, stating, “He was brilliant at right-back against Ipswich; not once did he get beaten one-on-one. He kept running for the entire 95 minutes.”

Young’s contributions have been vital as Dyche navigates injury issues within the squad.

Having signed a one-year contract extension at Goodison Park last summer—reportedly at Dyche’s request—few Everton fans anticipated Young would emerge as their first-choice right-back this season.

However, with Nathan Patterson sidelined after undergoing season-ending surgery and Seamus Coleman also returning from injury, Young has stepped up when needed most.

What seemed a dire situation in August quickly shifted when Young’s red card against Brighton marked the beginning of four consecutive losses, leaving Dyche’s side at the bottom of the table.

Despite Everton’s financial constraints preventing new signings, the Premier League’s oldest outfield player has risen to the occasion, helping to improve the team’s fortunes on Merseyside.

As Dan Friedkin’s takeover approaches, coupled with a potential move to a new stadium, this season may be Young’s last with Everton.

However, as long as he remains in the squad, fans can expect the dedicated full-back to give everything he has to help Dyche’s side stay in the top

flight.