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Townsend claims he tried linking up with Benitez twice after 2016 union
Andros Townsend has claimed that he twice tried linking up with new Everton manager Rafael Benitez on a few occasions.
The winger has now completed his free transfer to Goodison Park, signing a two-year deal with the Blues. Townsend left Crystal Palace after his contract expired last month.
He’s previously worked with the Spaniard when he joined Newcastle United back in 2016. The winger was in fantastic form, scoring four goals and registering two assists. However, the ace failed to help the Geordies stave off relegation.
And in his first interview as an Everton player, the 30-year-old confirmed that he could’ve linked up with Benitez multiple times following his loan spell.
When talking about Benitez, Townsend told the : “I know Rafa. We worked together at Newcastle and we have been trying to link back up on a couple of occasions but it wasn’t to be. So when he called me with the backing of Everton football club, with big ambitions, as the old cliché goes it was a no-brainer.”
Trust from Benitez should be enough to convince Everton fans Townsend is a good signing
The high level of trust from Benitez should be enough to convince Everton fans Townsend is a good signing.
I mean, who can judge a coach of the former Valencia and Liverpool man’s ilk?
Townsend and Benitez combined to devastating effect during the duos’ time at St James’ Park. It’s a sign that the Spaniard can get a tune out of the England international.
Then there’s the lengthy experience of the winger. His time with Tottenham, the Eagles and the Three Lions can help boost the Blues up the table.
Last season’s drop off in form towards the back end of the campaign was a display of the inexperience in the team.
Townsend has been noted for his discipline and defensive nous throughout his career. The Merseysiders will only benefit from signing the player.
It’s easy to see why fans could be underwhelmed by Townsend’s addition after just 16 goals in 185 Palace appearances. But, Benitez’s trust in the winger is a sign the supporters should applaud the move.