Coleman Tribute To 'Proper Everton Player' Richarlison

Seamus Coleman says Brazilian attacker Richarlison is a “proper Everton player”. The Toffees’ new boy tormented Wolverhampton Wanderers on Saturday and scored both the Blues’ goals in a 2-2 draw at Molineux.

Richarlison’s second strike was especially impressive, the 21-year-old stroking the ball coolly across goalkeeper Rui Patricio after bursting forward to collect a pass from Cenk Tosun and motoring into the box.

If that goal was a product of the forward’s drive and artistry, then his first-half effort bore all the hallmarks of a penalty-box predator. Richarlison, a striker in his formative years back in his homeland, pounced on a loose ball 10 yards out and clinically prodded home.

The Everton debutant, who was manager Marco Silva’s first Goodison Park recruit, contributed much more than his two goals in the Midlands. He put in a substantial shift on the left, exhibiting his physicality and power and a certain defensive awareness.

Richarlison emerged on top from four aerial duels and won three free-kicks for his side – including the one which led to his first goal for the Club. More than three-quarters of his 31 passes found their mark, with 16 of Richarlison’s 24 accurate balls being fed into opposition territory.

“I was not surprised by his performance,” said right-back Coleman.

“I do not want to put too much pressure on him but he is a great lad. He does all the stuff you need to do going forward.

“But he digs in, too, and is a proper team player. I am very excited by him. He is a proper Everton player.”


Coleman would fit the same description and his name was one of those sung loudest by more than 3,000 Evertonians packed into their section of Wolves’ vibrant old ground.

The Irishman, who was playing his 260th match for the Club at the outset of his 10th full Goodison campaign, was part of an Everton rearguard which defended admirably following the dismissal of captain Phil Jagielka four minutes before the break.

Wolves equalised in the immediate wake of Jageilka’s red card and drew level again when Raul Jimenez headed in from close range after Richarlison had restored Everton’s lead.

One of the most notable aspects of an engrossing game was the manner in which the Blues retained their attacking ambition after being reduced to 10 men.

Indeed, with the clock ticking down on Everton's opening Premier League match of the season, the marauding Coleman charged upfield and sent in a delivery which ran fractionally out of reach of Oumar Niasse 10 yards from goal.


Coleman revealed he is relishing the opportunity to play Silva’s forceful and progressive brand of football.

But the 29-year-old, who has scored 24 goals for the Club, insisted defensive responsibility features high on the boss’s list of demands, too.

Coleman will hold his ground when Leighton Baines – outstanding at the weekend on his 404th Everton appearance – dashes into the final third. Equally, Coleman can canter forward safe in the knowledge Baines will mind the back door.

“I am really enjoying playing the manager’s style of football,” added Coleman. “It is not what you would imagine, just bombing on. You have to bomb on at the right time. If one goes, one stays.

“It is great that he is very encouraging. I have really enjoyed working with him and we are hoping for a very successful season.

“And on Saturday, I thought we battled hard to stay in the game and get the point.”