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Dyche believes fit-again Gomes can be key player for Everton
Everton boss Sean Dyche believes midfielder Andre Gomes can be a key figure for the club over the closing weeks of the season.The 30-year-old Portuguese turned a loan from Barcelona into a permanent move in 2019 but injuries have taken their toll in the intervening period and he spent last season on loan in France with Lille.
He started just his second Premier League game of the season against Burnley last weekend, helping Dyche’s side to a much-needed first league victory in 2024.
“It’s been hard for him with all the ups and downs of injury,” said Dyche. “I made it clear when he came back in the summer that I felt he could be an important part of us and he’s been so unlucky.
“He delivered a very good physical performance for someone who hadn’t played in so long. We know he’s got quality and he certainly put himself right back in the frame for what we need going forwards.
“He’s a very good technical player and his know-how as well, he’s a knowledgeable player and I think that’s helpful in our group at the moment.
“There’s a calmness about his play and hopefully, as long as he stays fit…he’s certainly been fit this week and working hard, and I think he enjoyed it as well, locking in the full game. It’s been hard for him and I think he enjoyed the challenge of it.”