Paul Robinson Exclusive: I've changed my mind about £14m-valued Everton player

Paul Robinson has revealed he's been won over by Mason Holgate during his impressive recent spell in the Everton side.

Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the ex-England goalkeeper admitted he's changed his mind over the 23-year-old and claimed he's been the club's best defender this season.

Holgate was used in a surprise central midfield role by caretaker manager Duncan Ferguson in Sunday's 1-1 draw against Manchester United at Old Trafford amid a series of senior star unavailabilities.

The versatile operator made a strong impression alongside Tom Davies after starting the seven previous matches at centre-back.

Everton's draw followed their 3-1 win over Chelsea last weekend and lifted them three points clear of the relegation zone.

Asked by Football Insider if he has changed his mind about any Everton player, Robinson said: "Mason Holgate. I think he’s come back into the side, he’s another one that’s
gotten better with age.

"He’s been loaned out, it looked like a one point his future at Everton probably lay elsewhere, but he’s come back in, played centre-half as well, he's also chipped in with a couple of goals and I think his defensive performances have been the best of a bad bunch."

Football Insider revealed last week that £14million-valued Holgate is a target of Newcastle United in the January window.

He has a contract at Goodison Park that runs until the summer of 2022.

In other Everton news, it can be REVEALED that the club have set their sights on Rangers player amid CRUNCH Ibrox talks.