Holgate delivers verdict on Everton injuries
By Abigail Withey
Everton defender Mason Holgate has revealed that while he wishes his team mates were fully fit, injuries in the backline gives him the opportunity to feature in the starting line-up.
The 20-year-old is expected to feature in front of keeper Jordan Pickford on the pitch against Apollon Limassol in the club’s second group clash of their Europa League journey.
Ronald Koeman has been faced with a number of injuries and recently confirmed that both centre-backs Phil Jagielka and Michael Keane would be out of Thursday’s match at Goodison Park.
“I’d never wish (injuries) on anybody but it’s an opportunity for me and all I can do is play well in that position,” Holgate said in the press conference, as quoted on the official club’s website.
“I’m happy in either role (centre-back or right-back). I’ll play anywhere. Wherever I’m needed I’ll play.
“As I get older I’m hoping to go centre-back but if it ends up me going right-back I’m not worried by that.”
The England Under-21 has made five appearances across a number of competitions so far this season, but has still remained on the bench for clashes against Tottenham and Manchester United.
Holgate has expressed his can do attitude throughout the current campaign and has showed his versatility in a number of roles.
While the youngster predominately plays in the centre-back role, he has already played in both full-back positions this season as well as in right midfield against Manchester City and Chelsea in the Premier League.
Holgate and his team mates will be hoping to secure three points on Thursday after they suffered a disappointing 3-0 loss in the first Europa group clash against Atalanta.
In other Everton news, Charlie Nicholas has predicted this Toffees star will run amok during their Europa League clash against Apollon Limassol.
We’ve launched a << BREAKING NEWS FEED>> exclusively for your club. ‘Like Us’ on Facebook by clicking here if you want 24/7 updates on all Everton breaking news.