Andros is Good enough for Rafa

RAFA BENITEZ knew not to listen to those at Everton who worried Andros Townsend was no longer fully focused on playing football.

That his media career meant he had one eye on what was coming next.

The Goodison gaffer had seen enough in

90-odd minutes at the end of last season to recognise the hunger was still there at 30.

“The misconception is when you try to do something outside of football, you’re taking your eye off the game,” said Townsend (above).

“One of my first conversations with the manager was that, ‘People tell me you’re not focused any more, you’re not dedicated because of your media work’.

“But he said he watched me in my last game of the season for Crystal Palace against Liverpool and we were

2-0 down, and he saw me chasing around like it was a cup final.

“He said he knew then the fire was still there.

“I didn’t need rejuvenating, but I feel like an 18 or 19-year-old breaking through with a lot of people questioning if I’m good enough.

“It ignites that fire within you, the desire to prove people wrong.”

Townsend has also taken part in the McDonald’s Fun Football programme. He added: “It’s incredible, especially at a time when grassroots football is on and off because of Covid.

“The last 18 months, a lot of kids haven’t had a steady football season.

“This is a pressure-free environment and, if you like football, you should come on down.”

Andros Townsend is supporting McDonald’s Fun Football. Free sessions for 5 to 11-year-olds are available nationwide this autumn. Simply visit mcdonalds.co.uk/funfootball to sign up and play