Everton Coach Ancelotti Explains Why Iwobi Was Preferred To Nkounkou At LWB Vs Leeds United

Everton boss Carlo Ancelotti has explained the rationale behind his choice of Alex Iwobi for the left wing-back position during his side's 1-0 loss to Leeds United in their last Premier League outing at Goodison Park.

The move by the experienced Italian football tactician saw summer signing Niels Nkounkou, who is a natural left-back, miss out on the matchday 18.

Against Leeds United, Everton played with two makeshift wing-backs, Tom Davies being the other, as a result of the injuries suffered by Lucas Digne and Seamus Coleman.

Nkounkou was expected by many to step into Lucas Digne's shoes but in a surprise move, Ancelotti preferred the attack-minded Iwobi, who shone playing as a right wing-back vs Fulham in the previous game.

Speaking to reporters at Friday's press conference before the trip to Burnley, Ancelotti explained : "Nkounkou was not in the squad because I have 11 players, I decided to put Iwobi on the left. The squad is really big.

"He's still young, he needs more experience, he needs to work more. But I am honestly satisfied for what he is doing.

"He will have time in the next game because we have a lot of games.

"The fact we played with two midfielders [as wing backs], I think we have good cover because usually the two midfielders have the help of one of the centre-backs to cover the position behind them."

Nkounkou has made only one Premier League appearance since joining Everton from Marseille in July 2020.

Igho Kingsley

Photo Credit : evertonfc.com