Big Sam backs Schneiderlin after winning return

MORGAN Schneiderlin was given a standing ovation from Everton fans just two months after sections of their support booed him — and boss Sam Allardyce believes the Frenchman is rediscovering his form.

The midfielder was forced off in the victory over Newcastle on Monday night due to a dead leg and home supporters showed their appreciation for Schneiderlin’s recent displays by rising to their feet.

That was in stark contrast to the reception he received as a substitute against Crystal Palace in February, when Schneiderlin was jeered, to Allardyce’s surprise, following a difficult spell at Goodison Park after a £20 million move from Manchester United in January 2017.

At one point Schneiderlin was even left out of the squad, along with Kevin Mirallas, following a training-ground incident in November but Allardyce thinks he is now displaying the type of performances which earned him the big move to United from Southampton.

“Sooner or later he has to find himself from where he used to be,” the Everton boss said.

“Sometimes it takes a while to find yourself after, I think, probably a disappointing move that didn’t work at Man United.

“For the first time you find yourself in the squad not being involved very much. Then you come to Everton and try to reinvent your career and show what you can do again. Sometimes it takes a bit of time.

“Obviously the whole team suffered a lack of confidence at the start of the season. Everybody’s finally going in the right direction and ebbing back towards more and more confidence. I think the confidence is going the right way.”

Dundee defender Josh Meekings.