Why Everton should keep hold of Jonjoe Kenny

According to Patrick Berger (h/t Liverpool Echo), Everton are looking to offload Jonjoe Kenny. The report suggests that Everton have rejected a move for the youngster to Schalke on another season-long loan and want to sell him. It is claimed that they want €18m for Kenny,

Profile

Born in England, flourished through the ranks of Everton’s youth system and made 64 appearances for the U23 squad. He also helped the club lift two U21 Premier League titles. However, he was sent on a loan spell to Wigan but returned to make his senior debut in the 2017/18 campaign.

He then struggled for regular game time in the two seasons following his debut and was sent on a loan spell to Schalke last term. He became a key member of the Bundesliga and made 31 league appearances, racking up 2 goals and 3 assists. The youngster excelled during his time on loan with the German outfit.

At the international level, Kenny won the U20 World Cup with England in 2017 and was also a part of the U17 squad which won the European Championship in 2014.

Kenny could help Everton maintain the depth in their defence

At the moment, only two right-backs are available at Carlo Ancelotti’s disposal. Club captain Seamus Coleman was a regular member of the squad. However, Frenchman Djibril Sidibe took his place last season when on loan at Goodison Park and was excellent for the Toffees in the league.

But Everton missed the chance to sign him on a permanent basis after the World Cup winner returned to Monaco once his loan spell came to an end last summer. And they have just two right-backs, including Kenny. Thus, keeping hold of the former England U21 international would be a wise decision by the club.

The youngster was in sensational form last season with the Bundesliga side and could come in handy for Everton this season if he is able to replicate the same form. Moreover, Coleman is already 31 and reaching the twilight of his career. Kenny could be seen as a replacement for the Irish international.

Kenny seems to have developed a lot and his presence could also help the Toffees maintain their depth at the back. A right-back by nature, he is also capable of operating as a centre-back. He could be a useful member of the squad, which isn’t blessed with deep cover in central defence. Thus, they should keep hold of him for a few more years.

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Verdict

With Coleman ageing and limited options at the back, selling Kenny might not be a wise move. The 23-year-old is capable of doing well and his presence could provide them with some much-needed depth in various positions. Thus, they should manage to hold onto Kenny for as a long as possible and get the best out of him.