Silva 'Lit A Fire Inside Me', Says Digne

Lucas Digne has revealed ambitious Everton boss Marco Silva “lit a fire inside" him during their first conversation – leaving the Frenchman convinced the Club was the ideal place for him to progress his career.

The left-back joined the Toffees from La Liga champions Barcelona in the summer and explained his excitement about the Portuguese’s vision for Everton.

Digne has kicked off his Blues career in impressive fashion, starting the past nine Premier League games and delivering a series of accomplished performances.

The 25-year-old says he has swiftly settled into life on Merseyside and knows he made the right decision in moving to Goodison Park.

“I wasn’t really planning to leave Barca and they were not looking to sell me, but when I spoke to Everton manager Marco Silva on the phone I got this special feeling,” Digne said.

“He really lit a fire inside of me and I thought, ‘Wow! I really want to play for this club and manager.’

“Then I went to Barca and asked them to please let me go. They accepted that this was my wish. I am thankful for that because now I feel happy in Everton.”


Digne’s eye-catching form has seen him recalled to the France squad and he is in line to win his 23rd cap when Didier Deschamps’ world champions take on Holland on Friday night.

The former Roma and Paris St Germain defender insists his move to Everton has been vital in achieving international recognition. He says he is enjoying the responsibility of being a key player for boss Silva.

“Barca was my childhood dream, so yes, it was difficult to leave, because I could have stayed to continue a great life in the club and the city,” he said. “The club wanted me to stay.

“But I am 25 years old now and in a phase of my career, where I want to play every week, have a bigger role in the team and feel the full confidence of the coach.

“I could not turn down Everton.”