Time for Everton young star to become a leader that Goodison needs

With Seamus Coleman sidelined by a ligament injury, Everton is left wanting another leader on the field, writes the LiverpoolEcho.

Coleman’s absence has been felt heavily, as seen in the three recent defeats during which he was not available. As the club fights to avoid relegation, another player must step up to fill the void left by Coleman’s injury. The defender is a crucial part of the dressing room and has shown the ability to provide inspiration even when injured, as evidenced by Frank Lampard’s praise of him during last year’s dramatic escape from the relegation zone.

The absence of Coleman in the recent games has exposed a defensive vulnerability as well as a psychological fragility that manager Sean Dyche has worked hard to eliminate. Dyche believes that Coleman will continue to offer support off the pitch but his character will need to be replaced on the pitch. Amadou Onana could seize this opportunity to showcase his passion and maturity and become the leader that Everton needs, suggests the LiverpoolEcho.

In the absence of Seamus Coleman, Jordan Pickford has taken on the role of captain and his recent performances indicate he is hitting top form again, reminiscent of his crucial contributions during last season’s survival battle. However, it will take more than just maturity and calmness from James Tarkowski to fill the void left by Coleman’s absence. Amadou Onana could potentially be a strong leader for the team. Onana has experience as a captain, having led his country at youth level and was given the armband for the senior team in a recent international match.

He has also shown his emotive personality on the pitch, often seen encouraging the crowd at Goodison Park. Despite leaving Arsenal’s title challengers in awe earlier in the season, Onana’s full potential has yet to be realized, and this is an opportunity for him to step up and take responsibility for saving Everton from relegation. Although he has much to learn and has faced immense pressure playing in a struggling team, his maturity and talent make him a prime candidate for showcasing his leadership qualities in the final four games of the season. Richarlison was the hero of last season’s fightback, and Onana has the potential to become this season’s hero.