Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg left Southampton for Tottenham (Getty Images)
Former Premier League striker Noel Whelan while talking to Football Insider (h/t Daily Express), has tipped Everton to sign Southampton captain Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg.
Whelan, a former Leeds and Coventry forward, is of the opinion that Hojbjerg will have enough room in a side like Everton, which has a surplus of unwanted players in its midfield like Morgan Schneiderlin. Despite having as many as seven midfielders in their rank, the Toffees have endured a difficult spell in the league this season that has seen them slip to a lowly 12th in the rankings.
Moreover, injuries to midfielders such as Jean-Philippe Gbamin, Andre Gomes and few others had put the side under a lot of pressure. Despite having seasoned campaigners such as Schneiderlin, Fabian Delph and Gylfi Sigurdsson, Everton have lacked creativity and consistency in the middle, managing just 37 goals from their 29 overall league outings.
Hojbjerg has been a regular feature in the Saints line-up since moving from his former side Bayern Munich in the summer of 2016. His consistent displays for Southampton had seen him being handed the captain’s armband under coach Ralph Hasenhüttl.
One of the first few names on the team sheet, midfielder Hojbjerg has played 28 of their 29 league outings this season. He played a major role in helping Southampton avoid relegation from the Premier League last season, scoring four goals and giving as many assists in the process.
He was the Saints’ top assist-provider last season alongside winger Nathan Redmond. Hojbjerg alongside coach Hasenhuttl has been key to Southampton’s rise to 14th place in the rankings after a series of poor displays early in the season that saw them drop to the relegation zone.
The 24-year-old Dane has been an example of a leader and has time and again proved his capability as one of the most consistent performers in the Southampton side. Meanwhile, Ancelotti’s side need such a regular face in the middle and Hojbjerg, given his recent displays for Southampton, could be a great addition for the Toffees.
Moreover, with veterans Schneiderlin, Delph, and Sigurdsson already past their thirties, Everton could really do with a young face like Hojbjerg, who can offer them confidence and vigour in the middle.
With 104 Premier League appearances to his name, there is no questioning Hojbjerg’s potential and his arrival will only make Everton stronger. At the moment, Ancelotti’s side lack enough experienced and young midfielders, meaning Hojbjerg could be a valuable addition for them. Hence they should pay heed to Whelan’s words and land him soon at Goodison Park.
