Everton boss Roberto Martinez says Tom Cleverley was “terrific” during Tuesday’s 2-0 friendly victory over Dundee United.
The midfielder was outstanding as the Toffees backed up Sunday’s win at Hearts with another confident display, with Martinez using the match at Tannadice to give a number of his squad a run-out.
However, it was summer arrival Cleverley who was arguably the outstanding performer on the night and he is now surely pushing for a starting role on the opening weekend of the season against Watford.
The Merseysiders are currently the 1.75 favourites to begin their campaign with a win, while the draw is 3.75 and the Hornets priced at 5.00.
Following a couple of disappointing seasons after bursting on to the scene at Manchester United, the 25-year-old enjoyed somewhat of a renaissance last year while on loan at Aston Villa.
Everton were quick to snap him up on a free transfer earlier this summer and it appears Martinez’s brand of passing football could well bring the best out of the England man.
The boss admits he has been impressed by how Cleverley has adapted to life at his new club, reserving special praise for his performance on Tuesday.
“It is that combination of having good youth and experience,” he told Everton TV. “Tom showed he can be a leader.
“He has fitted in really well in the dressing room and and it is a fantastic example for any youngster to look up to an England international with his best years ahead of him.
“He was terrific in his attitude and with his involvement in the game and that’s an exciting prospect for the future for us.”
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