Why Bernard could still be useful for Everton next season
According to Italian media outlet Calciomercato (h/t Daily Mail), Everton winger Bernard is considering a £16m move to AS Roma so that he can link up with old manager Paulo Fonseca.
The 27-year-old Bernard moved to Goodison Park in the summer of 2018 after some impressive displays for Ukrainian side Shakhtar Donetsk.
Though Bernard has not been Everton’s best of performers in the past two years, he definitely has been a utility man for the club due to his versatility. He is capable of playing on either flank and can also take the role of an attacking midfielder as he has done on numerous occasions for the Toffees.
Bernard did not enjoy a fruitful maiden season in England despite featuring 34 times in the league. He managed to score just one goal and four assists.
However, there seems to be an improvement in his performances, with the player scoring four goals from 19 matches this season. This is a proof of the winger’s potential and something which would come in handy for the Toffees next season.
Despite the arrival of newcomer Alex Iwobi from Arsenal last summer, Bernard has managed to hold on to his spot with his consistent displays. Also, his ability to adapt to any role in the attack has made him a good utility player.
Everton boss Carlo Ancelotti could make good use of this as Bernard offers him plenty of options up front according to the game’s requirement. It is better Everton keep this in mind before they consider offloading the Brazilian.
Moreover, veteran winger Theo Walcott is already past his thirties now and has been far from the player he was earlier this season. The English wide-man has scored just once despite playing 22 league games.
The Toffees are left with just one more winger in star man Richarlison. However, he is mostly preferred in the No.9 role, where he has flourished. Hence, there won’t be too many changes to his role in the upcoming season, giving a fair idea of Everton’s lack of wingers in the side. Hence, it would better if Everton hold on to their utility man and keep him amidst links to Roma.
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Verdict
With Bernard’s performances on the pitch steadily improving, it would be wise of Everton to keep hold of him rather than let him go. Moreover, he can give Ancelotti plenty of options in attack with his versatility, which will help them in their pursuit of climbing the table next season.