Marco Silva on why Lookman didn’t start derby, Gomes transfer latest

Everton have a quick turnaround this week as they host Newcastle United tomorrow at Goodison Park. Marco Silva spoke to the media today for his pre-match press conference ahead of the Toon visit.

The manager was asked about when Ademola Lookman would get to start after having stated a number of times in the last few weeks that the player was close.

“He did well, 30 minutes against Liverpool and he is more than ready to start tomorrow’s match.

“We don’t have much time to recover from the last match so hopefully we will have more time to prepare in the future. It is possible I make some changes.

“He is 100% in contention to start. Maybe he already deserved a place in the starting XI”

The manager revealed that he was happy with how they had managed to keep a minor injury to the young winger under wraps. Lookman had had an issue on Tuesday and was doubtful up until Saturday, but came through alright on Sunday playing the last half an hour.

Silva was also asked about midfielder Andre Gomes’ status with how well he’s been playing.

“About Andre, we are reall happy with him. He is a Portuguese player and I have followed his career since early with Benfica. Fantastic football player and fantastic character too.

“When he started to play with us he hasn’t played 90 minutes for four or five months and now he is improving every week. I have no doubts, he is a high quality player.”

It was raised that the transfer fee for the player could be very steep.

“We will try to sign a player like him and we will see in the future.

“Sometime in football the most expensive footballers are the cheapest you can sign.”