“Sky Sports Pundit Hails ‘Brilliant’ Everton Star’s Quality Display in First Half Against Leicester”
"Everton Forward Iliman Ndiaye Impresses Sue Smith with 'Brilliant' Run and Finish in First Half Against Leicester City."
Sean Dyche’s team went into halftime with a 1-0 lead at the King Power Stadium on Saturday (21 September), courtesy of a well-taken right-footed goal by Ndiaye early in the first half.
While the 24-year-old’s finish earned him most of the praise from fans and pundits, Sky Sports pundit Smith quickly highlighted the “quality” of Ndiaye’s run leading up to the goal.
Speaking on Sky Sports Soccer Saturday (21 September, 15:11), she said: “It’s a goal for Everton, Ndiaye with the finish.
It’s a really good goal. Everton have started stronger.
They had a great chance just before this, and Lindstrom should have done better, but this is all about Ndiaye and the quality he showed on the left.”
She added: “Ashley Young picks up the ball and plays it into Ndiaye. He actually starts the move, passes it to Young, and continues his run centrally.
Leicester’s defending was poor, but Ndiaye cuts inside onto his right foot and finishes brilliantly.”
How much did Everton pay for Iliman Ndiaye?
Despite Everton’s imperfect start to the season, Ndiaye has been one of the few standout performers since joining from Marseille earlier this summer.
Dyche needed to add more goal-scoring options, as the Blues heavily relied on Dominic Calvert-Lewin.
Ndiaye has proven to be an ideal addition, capable of playing alongside the England international and being just as impactful.
His goal against Leicester highlighted exactly what he brings to the table.
His close control during the build-up was excellent, and the composure he showed when finishing was remarkable.
Everton will be hoping to build on their promising start against the Foxes.
Although it’s still early in the season to label this a critical match, securing a victory against a potential relegation rival could be a significant step forward for the Blues.
