Sean Dyche is full of praise for Everton’s seldom seen centre-back Ben Godfrey amid reports suggesting that Rangers are keen on the Premier League benchwarmer.
The former Norwich City captain has played only one minute of top-flight football under Dyche this season, falling behind James Tarkowski, Michael Keane and the exceptional Jarrod Branthwaite in Everton’s pecking order.
As a result, there is increasing conjecture on Ben Godfrey’s future prior to the January window. A possible winter transfer is being investigated by Tottenham Hotspur, Newcastle United, Burnley, AFC Bournemouth, and Crystal Palace (90 minutes).
Therefore, even though Rangers might seem to be in a difficult situation, a possible loan move north of the border shouldn’t be completely ruled out at this time. Godfrey can’t be assured first-team football at Spurs or St. James, but Rangers can provide him with that, and it can only help Everton and the 25-year-old player.
Rangers reportedly in Ben Godfrey chase
Dyche, meanwhile, admires the way Godfrey has gone about his business on the training pitch, performing with a great deal of professionalism despite his suddenly very limited role.
“He’s doing terrifically well for us. He’s training very well, he’s staying sharp and ready,” the Toffees boss tells the Liverpool Echo.
“The hardest thing we’ve had lately is the games programme, to try and keep the players who are not quite playing, (not) starting in the first team, keeping them game-ready. But he looks after himself. He’s a super-fit fella, he’s going along well and he’s ready.
“I think it’s fair to say currently it’s tough. The two centre-halves are both playing very, very well as most people are saying outside of my opinion and decision, I think most people accept that.”
Struggling for chances at Everton
In 2020, Godfrey set Everton back a cool £20 million. But with his contract expiring in about 18 months, cash-strapped Everton—which is facing the wrath of FFP—may have to contemplate selling at a significant loss.
Dyche adds, “As a center-half, which I was, there are times when it’s difficult because you want to play.” However, I believe that most center-halves are honest. They realize they have to wait patiently when they observe someone playing well. I believe he is aware of that.
“I think he’s a very good player, but right now, he’s looking at two center-halves who are playing very well: Tarkowski and Branthwaite.”
