Maitland-Niles: Hill Dickinson Is Even Louder Than Goodison

Ainsley Maitland-Niles was “lost for words” after scoring a stunning stoppage-time equaliser in his Everton debut on Sunday – and says the Hill Dickinson Stadium atmosphere is even better than Goodison Park’s.

A second-half substitute against Manchester United, the deadline-day signing made the perfect start to life in royal blue.

His 96^th-minute long-range strike brought Everton level, securing a 2-2 draw with Manchester United after trailing twice in the game.

Asked about his first experience of Hill Dickinson Stadium, Maitland-Niles – formerly of Arsenal, Southampton and West Brom in the Premier League – described the electric atmosphere, remarking: “It’s louder than Goodison – put it that way. And Goodison was really rocking when I was there. Goosebumps.

“Words can’t describe how I feel.”

Everton remain unbeaten so far this season after draws against Manchester United and Bournemouth, a win over Crystal Palace, along with victory against Preston North End in the Carabao Cup.

Maitland-Niles says he’s settled in well with his new club – and is confident they can continue showing their quality this season.

“All the boys are great,” he added. “The gaffer’s great, as well. We’re looking forward to doing more work together.

“We’ve got the quality in our team to be able to win games, come up with draws, show fighting spirit.

“It’s a fighting team. From the first few days I entered the pitch with the rest of the team, you could see they’re fighters.

“If you’re not a fighter here, they won’t respect you. So, you have to earn your respect by fighting as much as they do – if not more.

“We’ve got quality out wide, quality in the middle, quality all over, so we can definitely do something this season."