Iroegbunam a fans' favourite in the making?

Image source, Getty Images

  • Author, Shamoon Hafez
  • Role, 大象传媒 Sport football news reporter at Deepdale

Everton sold midfielder Amadou Onana to Aston Villa for 拢50m this summer, but have Unai Emery's side provided the Toffees with the Belgium international's replacement?

England youth international Tim Iroegbunam arrived from Villa Park for 拢10m and is already showcasing his potential in a Blues shirt with an impressive outing in the 3-0 victory at Preston on Saturday.

Fellow summer signings Jake O'Brien and Jesper Lindstrom netted for Everton but 21-year-old Ireoegbunam displayed an all-action midfield performance, always available to take the ball and showing some silky touches when in possession.

He made a couple of perfectly-timed challenges to halt attacks from the home side and could have been on the scoresheet but screwed wide from the edge of the box with his weaker left foot.

A late challenge on Will Keane drew a few gasps and jeers from the home supporters, but Toffees supporters will have been pleased by the commitment shown by Iroegbunam.

The Goodison Park faithful did not fully take to Onana during his time at the club but if their new man can take his pre-season form into the cut and thrust of the Premier League campaign, they may have a new favourite to chant about.