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Despite some of the narrow formations we’ve seen this season, Everton actually had an abundance of wide attacking players going into this January window. The return to health of Yannick Bolasie and the purchase of Theo Walcott were the additions of two starters in these ranks, so it should be no surprise that we are now seeing departures.
Burnley close to a deal for Everton’s Aaron Lennon. Nominal fee.
— paul joyce (@_pauljoyce) January 19, 2018
Long-disgruntled Kevin Mirallas was the first to depart and now faithful soldier Aaron Lennon seems to be following him out the door.
There’s an interesting comparison between Everton’s two outgoing wingers. Mirallas was talented but unsettled, and some would say selfishly pouted and agitated until he got his move.
Lennon, perhaps not as naturally gifted, was a hard worker willing to put in defensive shifts and not seek glory for himself. He’s been a model citizen for the club and it’s been good having him.
Exclusive: Burnley have agreed a deal with Everton to sign Aaron Lennon for an undisclosed fee. Personal terms done but 30yo winger still needs to undergo medical. Lennon scored 7 goals in 63 apps but is surplus to requirements following Theo Walcott arrival #twitterclarets #EFC
— David Ornstein (@bbcsport_david) January 19, 2018
Despite sitting in seventh in the Premier League, Burnley has a -1 goal differential and have struggled to score.
Lennon probably isn’t the finisher they need but his pace and decent key passing numbers, combined with the fact that he’s completed right at half his dribbles since he’s been at Everton should provide some help at Turf Moor. His willingness to chip in defensively should also work well in their scheme.
Aaron Lennon is a case where we might have hoped for more on the field, but as a man and as a professional we appreciate his time here in blue. Good luck to you, Aaron!