Everton wanted Hojbjerg, but Allan easily overshadowed former Toffees target

Everton got off to a brilliant start in the Premier League, beating Tottenham Hotspur 1-0 away from home.

Carlo Ancelotti’s side were impressive in London, with their three new signings Allan, Abdoulaye Doucoure and James Rodriguez making a huge difference to the team.

Dominic Calvert-Lewin was the match-winner, converting a pinpoint Lucas Digne cross in the second half.

It was not a scintillating display by any means from Everton, with Spurs particularly poor, but there were many promising signs.

Arguably Everton’s best player on the day was Brazilian Allan, who operated efficiently in front of the back four.

The 29-year-old, brought in from Napoli, was superb at putting out fires and keeping the ball for his team, and Toffees fans ought to be massively encouraged from the South American’s first outing.

By contrast, the game was a real struggle for Allan’s opposite number Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg.

Everton wanted Hojbjerg

Ironically, Everton were reportedly very keen at one point to sign Hojberg from Southampton.

The Toffees even apparently made an £18 million offer according to The Telegraph in July, and his eventual move to Spurs was deemed a bit of a sting.

But fans will no doubt be encouraged by what they saw from Allan as Hojbjerg wilted at the Tottenham Hotspur stadium.

The Dane will obviously improve as the season goes on, but it could be that Everton fans don’t have to give him a moment’s thought if Allan keeps up such a level.

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