Everton didn’t have the fairytale season they expected last season as they finished 8th in the Premier League, one spot lower than their previous finish. They conceded a mammoth 58 goals last season, the joint 6th-worst in the competition.
They continuously leaked goals despite the signing of Michael Keane from Burnley last summer. The Toffees have struggled at the back and they need defensive reinforcements if they are to succeed.
According to a report by Hartlepool Mail, the Toffees are keen on making a move for the centre-half who had a decent season for Middlesbrough as he helped them secure a 5th-place finish in the Championship. But his shot at playing in the Premier League took a massive blow when Boro were beaten 1-0 by Aston Villa in the playoffs.
In that case, he will receive his chance of playing in the Premier League only if he signs for a top-flight team. And Hartlepool Mail claims Everton and Southampton are interested in signing the English defender. But the question does remain, would he fit in at Everton?
Gibson had a season that was far from stellar but pretty decent overall. He averaged 6 clearances a game, with one tackle per game and one interception per game.
These stats aren’t great when compared to the current Toffees centre-half, Phil Jagielka, who fared better overall last season. Even Ashley Williams, who is close to hanging up his boots, boasts of better stats. So far, the numbers seem to portray that signing Gibson will not be a step forward but Everton will risk going two steps back.
He isn’t aerially awesome either and that could prove to be cumbersome for the club. The Toffees aren’t the best at defending long balls and Gibson wouldn’t be able to help in such scenarios.
Hence, Everton would be taking a real gamble if they were to sign the defender. If they go ahead with the move, Gibson would not get much game time, barring the occasional substitution or League Cup appearance.
Considering the fact that he’s 25 years of age, Gibson must set his sights on joining a team where he will get adequate first-team action. Everton already have a pretty decent defence but their players often end up making silly errors at the back.
The Merseyside club should consider other defensive options – particularly the likes of those who have played for a top-flight club before. Everton should look for better options whereas Gibson should sign for a club where he will be assured of sufficient first-team action.
