When 24-year old striker who had 24 goals and 6 assists in a Premier League season decides to leave your favourite team, it is very normal to feel worried.
Surely, that was how many Evertonians felt after Everton announced the reported £75m sale of Romelu Lukaku to Manchester United.
Lukaku definitely left a big void to be filled at the Merseyside. But, the early purchase of Sandro Ramirez for a reported fee of £5.25m may well calm down the nerves of many Everton fans.
A striker to keep an eye on
One may argue that Sandro is not yet Lukaku-esque. But, at 22, he is surely a striker to watch out for.
His high work rate, willingness to press the opposition and lead the defensive fight from the front really set the tone for his side last season; and the Toffees can expect the same next season.
He is also very comfortable on the ball and able to link brilliantly with midfield runners, a Lukaku-esque ability that makes him suitable for Everton’s style of play.
“There was a lot of interest in Sandro because, of course, he’s a goalscorer, he’s young and he has a big future in the game. We have been trying to bring in good players so we can have greater productivity in the team and he will bring that. He will bring a lot of good qualities and he’s a really good goalscorer, too”, Ronald Koeman said after signing him.
Yes, he was right.
Impressive in front of goal
Sandro’s scoring ability-the most important for a striker- is very impressive for a player of his age. Last season, he found the back of the net 14 times in 28 starts, an average of 1 goal in 2 starts. 5 of those 14 league goals last term came from outside the box, an encouraging statistic.
Sandro boasts terrific technique when striking a dead-ball and looks a genuine threat every time he shoots from distance.
That ability perhaps explains why he impressively averaged a shot every 25.17 minutes last season, even better than Lukaku (29.7). Not bad for a 22-year old striker!
9 of his 14 goals were scored at home, a possible indication that he performs better when supported by the home fans; something Everton fans should do next season.
With the right sort of guidance, the Spaniard will improve
His youthful experience may slow his progress a little bit in the very competitive Premier League.
But, the guidance of the experienced Wayne Rooney, another addition to the squad and his probable striking partner next season, would be helpful in developing him into a world-class striker.
Sandro was part of the Spanish side that recently lost 1-0 to Germany in the final of the UEFA European U21 Championship. And Everton will expect him to channel the experience gained in the competition into the team next season.
He might have been bought for less than £6m , but the former Barcelona player is indeed one to watch next season at Goodison Park!
Written by Adesuyi Adeola Ade Bob
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