Everton's pursuit of a right-back has included them in the Championship and Norwich City, as they have joined Leeds United in the race to sign Kellen Fisher.
The young defender found his best form under Philippe Clement last season and, at the age of 22, is quickly becoming one of the Championship's most promising young defenders.
His ability to play as a right back and right midfielder has attracted the attention of Everton and Leeds, who are looking to strengthen ahead of next season. It is an open secret in particular that the Toffees want to strengthen their right-hander this summer.
|
25/26 league stats out of 90 |
Kellen Fisher |
Jake O'Brien |
|---|---|---|
|
Minutes |
3,456 |
3,124 |
|
Fighting |
2.4 |
1.64 |
|
Recovery |
4.17 |
3.28 |
|
Duel success |
53.6% |
61.1% |
|
Successful dribbles |
0.55 |
0.17 |
Jake O'Brien's numbers from last season highlight just how desperate Everton must be in their pursuit of a right-back. The centre-back, a full-back by nature, has filled in admirably, but is clearly not a modern option.
Fisher combines defensive ability with attacking qualities in the way Seamus Coleman often did throughout his career on Merseyside. And, at the age of 22, he has the potential to one day reach the level of an Everton legend.
Of course, Leeds may have something to say about Everton's interest at the moment. The Whites are working with wingers these days and Fisher's ability to play as a winger suggests he is more than capable of fitting into Daniel Farke's setup.
The question for the young defender will be in game time. Jaden Bogle was very good at right wing last season, which could see Fisher on the bench.
As reported by TeamTalk, Everton and Leeds have launched moves to sign Fisher and received a swift response from Norwich.
The Canaries have issued a response, telling interested clubs that their defender is not for sale following Clement's instructions.
However, whether that situation lasts long remains to be seen. History would suggest that there is only so long that Championship clubs can hold on to rising stars.
“He did very well. And I have to say that Fish is one of the things that surprised me the most, the way he played, the way he behaved, his courage in football. He is a really good player in football.
“He played several positions and he adapts very quickly, but also in duels how he competes with people twice his size and twice his weight, but he wins those duels. – Clement
With Everton's growing interest in the right-back, it will be interesting to see if their interest turns into an offer and if that offer changes Norwich's situation. For now, Fisher is one to watch.
