‘He gives everything’ – Rafa lauds Everton star for aiding his teammates

Lewis Oldham
Rafael Benitez

Everton boss Rafa Benitez has praised Andros Townsend for helping his teammates, as he “will always give everything” to the club.

Benitez replaced Carlo Ancelotti at Goodison Park this summer. They were busy in the transfer market as Demarai Gray and Salomon Rondon were among their incomings.

Townsend also signed for Everton after his contract at Crystal Palace expired in July.


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The Englishman has started the season well for the Toffees. He has three goals and three assists from his seven appearances across all competitions. This includes a superb long-range strike against Burnley.

During his latest press conference (as cited by BBC Sport), Benitez took time to praise Townsend for his professionalism:

“His experience and behaviour is helping his teammates. He is really professional and is everything you expect in a player. He will always give everything.”

On Rondon: “He was great with us at Newcastle, he was great with us at Dalian. His commitment is there every game and every training session. He just needs to get match fitness and he will do well.”

Everton host Norwich City at Goodison Park on Saturday. Benitez later added that Jordan Pickford has resumed training:

“(Jordan) Pickford is okay, has been training, Lucas (Digne) is okay. The others (Richarlison, Seamus Coleman and Dominic Calvert-Lewin) are getting better but remain out.”

When asked if the injured trio could return for their national teams, Benitez said: “No chance – they will not be available to play international football [in the next international break].”

Earlier this week, Townsend admitted that he was “fortunate” to seal his move to Everton:

“I just want to keep working hard and impressing.

“I have been battling at the wrong end of the table for six years.

“I was very fortunate the stars aligned.

“I was out of contract, free transfers were more attractive following COVID and Rafa was appointed to the Everton job.

“I have the opportunity to fight at the right end of the table with a big and very ambitious club.”