Lennon full of praise for Jonjoe Kenny

Everton fans had been clamoring for the inclusion of youngster Jonjoe Kenny since the beginning of this miserable season. However, it was not until the last days of Ronald Koeman’s tenure that the 20-year-old finally got a start in the Premier League. Under caretaker manager David Unsworth, who saw him captain the Under-23s to the Premier League 2 title last season, Kenny flourished to the point where he’s an automatic starter on the right while Seamus Coleman continues to recuperate.

Kenny is still waiting for his maiden Premier League goal after a total of ten appearances so far, but his quality and work rate has been noticed by many, not least winger Aaron Lennon who links up with him on Everton’s right.

Speaking to evertonfc.com, Lennon was full of praise for the young right back -

“Jonjoe has been unbelievable. From the moment I came here, I’ve always liked Jonjoe. I’ve always thought he’s a great professional and a great player. Since he stepped in, he’s been unbelievable.

“Obviously, things weren’t going so great for us and for a young lad to come in and put in the performances that he did, it’s just fantastic. He’s getting better with every game, too. He’s been a joy to play with in recent weeks and we’re building up a little partnership now which has been great.

“Of course, Jonjoe is a great defender. I’m always trying to help him as well, as I do. But he wants to do his job and he’s always telling me, ‘Azza, push up!’

“He takes so much responsibility and he’s been great.

“He’s a passionate lad and he loves Everton. Every time he goes out on to the pitch, whether that be on the training ground or on a matchday, he is at it 100 per cent. He’s got a great attitude and you know he is someone who will never let you down.”

Kenny has come in for praise from various quarters in the past, with Unsworth, Leighton Baines and even new manager Sam Allardyce paying him various compliments, and Lennon sees a great future for him.

“The older lads always have a look at the younger lads coming through and it’s always great to see. Jonjoe was definitely one who was talked about in the dressing room amongst the lads in terms of someone who could make the step up.

“We’ve been proven right, to be fair. He’s been great and I think he’ll go a long way.”