Benitez’s big test
IT is testament to Rafa Benitez’s political acumen that he has successfully navigated the backlash to his appointment as Everton boss.
But the biggest test of the fragile truce between the former Liverpool manager and Goodison fans comes with the start of a new season and the first opportunity to judge him on the most important currency: results.
One of just seven men to represent both Merseyside clubs in the Premier League era, Don Hutchison believes that getting points on the board early will be vital if Benitez is to win over Evertonians quickly.
He said: “The first five fixtures are not that hard on paper so it’s important that he gets off to a good start. The last thing he needs on the opening day of the season is for Southampton, given they are losing players left, right and centre, to come to Goodison and win. That would put Rafa under pressure straight away.”
Everton’s disappointing 10th-placed finish last term owed much to a shocking home record. But Hutchison expects that to change once Blues fans are back in the ground.
“The home form was a shambles last season,” he said.
“I remember Fulham going there and they ran all over Everton, who were terrible. I really couldn’t believe what I was watching.
“There was no way those players would have performed that badly if the stadium had been full – the fans wouldn’t let the players be that bad.
“When Goodison’s rocking it’s a great place to be and they get right behind their players and their manager. I think the fans will take to Rafa because it’s the first game. You support your football club and want them to do well.
“I’m pretty sure the atmosphere is going to be incredible.”
Benitez has brought in wingers Andros Townsend and Demarai Gray and Hutchison believes they will be key this season.
“Everton needed more speed,” he added. “They were a very slow side last season, there was no particular pace across the pitch.”