Pundit slams Benitez after latest on ‘big fallout’ with Digne at Everton
Noel Whelan has urged Rafa Benitez to settle his differences with Everton defender Lucas Digne to help the Toffees “win football matches”.
The former Leeds striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, insisted Benitez “can’t afford to leave out his best players” as the Merseyside club’s woes continue.
Digne, 28, was not part of the Everton squad for the second consecutive game as the Toffees slumped to yet another loss against Crystal Palace yesterday (12 December).
However, The Athletic reported last week (8 December) that the pair had been embroiled in a training ground spat over the Frenchman’s role after recent tensions boiled over.
As quoted by the Guardian (10 December), Benitez appeared to confirm the reports – telling a press conference that “normally when you have conversations with players they are private conversations”.
When asked about the situation, Whelan told Football Insider‘s Ewan Kingsbury: “I don’t think any manager can afford to leave out their best players when they’re going through a barren run like Everton.
“I don’t see what the problem is. He works hard, defends well, gets forward, he’s got one of the best left feet in the Premier League – I’m really struggling to comprehend it. I can’t believe it.
“It must have been a big fallout, I just don’t understand. Why would you not want him in the side? He’s so potent and will help you win football matches.
“Benitez needs to put whatever has happened to one side and get him back in the team.”
Everton sit 14th in the Premier League after winning just one of their last twelve league matches.
Benitez’s side face Chelsea next on Thursday.
In other news, pundit tells Everton to “reject offer” for Digne after major development.