In an interview with the BBC, Garth Crooks said that Rafa Benitez owes a debt of gratitude to Richarlison after the Toffees beat Southampton in their first match of the season.
Many were surprised when Benitez was given Everton’s managerial position. The summer transfer window has not been the easiest for the Toffees.
However, they started their new campaign with a victory, defeating the visiting team, Southampton, 3-1 on Merseyside.
Richarlison made it even and it was his cross that later gave Calvert-Lewin the chance to score their third goal to solidify their win.
Crooks listed the 24-year-old in his squad of the week, insisting that Benitez has Calvert-Lewin to thank for their win against the Saints.
“While other international players are having extended holidays in order to recover from the Euros, Richarlison answers the call of club and country with equal measure and without fear or favour,” he told BBC Sport.
“I think Rafa Benitez owes this lad a debt of gratitude. If Benitez loses the opening game, the Everton boo boys – who hate his association with their Liverpool rivals – are suddenly after him. Richarlison has given him a brilliant start and bought him valuable time.”
