Pundit ‘sure’ about Ben Godfrey as Everton training ground footage emerges – ‘120%’
Noel Whelan has backed Ben Godfrey to push faltering Everton stars to the next level of performance as he looks to get back in the side after injury.
The former Leeds striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, claimed the 24-year-old’s versatility is a “great commodity to have” for under-pressure boss Frank Lampard.
Speaking to club media at Everton’s Finch Farm training ground (16 December), Godfrey insisted he is “ready to get going again” and is “buzzing” to make his return.
The England international suffered a serious leg fracture just 18 minutes into the season-opening loss against Chelsea on 6 August and has been out of senior action ever since.
Godfrey made his return to action with the Everton Under-21 side during the World Cup break, playing 90 minutes in the EFL Trophy against Mansfield.
The former Norwich star was used across the back four last season and has even played in defensive midfield in past seasons.
Everton sit one point and one place above the relegation zone but have chosen to stick by Lampard.
Whelan told Football Insider’s Ewan Kingsbury: “This a player who can play so many different roles.
“Having someone like that on the pitch means Lampard can just shuffle things around and adapt to different situations – rather than having to make a substitution.
“It’s a great commodity to have.
“I think Lampard getting as many people as possible back available in this side can only be a massive plus for him.
“He’s going to need all hands on deck.
“I’m sure Godfrey is dying to get back in the team, and he’ll be pushing everyone in that back four to play to 120% of their ability.”
In other news, Football Insider updates as Everton agree new midfielder deal after big-money offer accepted.