Noel Whelan has voiced his opinion on Everton potentially offering Djibril Sidibe a permanent contract at Goodison Park after his loan deal expires.
In an interview with Football Insider, the ex-striker has discussed that it would be a ‘smart signing’ for Carlo Ancelotti to add Sidibe permanently to the Everton ranks.
A recent update by Football Insider revealed that the manager has given the green light on signing the defender this summer. “He [Sidibe] is competitive, strong, quick – everything that you want to see. Most importantly, he has proven he can handle it in the Premier League,” Whelan commented.
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The 27-year-old arrived on Merseyside last summer on a one-year loan deal from Monaco (via BBC Sport). Since then, he has played primarily as a right-back but has also shifted into a midfield position when called upon. Sidibe has bagged himself four Premier League assists this season and five across all competitions (via Transfermarkt).
Everton currently have three right-backs on their books, including Cuco Martina who is rumoured to be leaving the club this summer in a planned squad upheaval (via Liverpool ECHO). Keeping Sidibe on permanently could provide friendly competition for Seamus Coleman and could help switch up Ancelotti’s game plan when required and cater to different types of opposition.
“I have been really impressed with what he has done since coming in there,” Whelan reflected on Sidibe’s input to Ancelotti’s side.
The Frenchman has proved his versatility and ability to contribute to goals by getting forward, a useful trait for any club. Whelan has tipped Everton to be a team who will be looking to challenge for the top four next season and squad depth is something any side must have if they are to keep things fresh and work their way up the table.
Everton fans, should Sidibe be given a permanent contract this summer? Join the discussion in the comments below…
