Everton: 359-game duo have now 'made big difference' at Goodison Park

Everton duo Conor Coady and James Tarkowski have ‘made a big difference’ and struck up a fruitful defensive partnership at Goodison Park, according to journalist Paul Brown.

The Toffees spent more than £70million during the summer transfer window, but they did not have to pay a penny for either of the centre-halves.

Coady joined Everton on a season-long loan from Wolverhampton Wanderers last month and he has made an instant impact.

The 10-cap England international has made six appearances since heading back to Merseyside, having been brought up in Liverpool, and played every minute of the Toffees’ last five Premier League clashes.

Everton boss Frank Lampard handed Coady the captain’s armband for his new employers’ 1-0 win over West Ham United on Sunday.

Tarkowski made the move to Goodison Park as a free agent in July, having left Burnley following the expiry of his Turf Moor contract.

The 29-year-old has been an integral member of Everton’s backline since his arrival, chalking up eight appearances.

Brown had concerns over Coady’s capabilities after Lampard decided to revert to a four-man defence.

However, the journalist has been impressed with the loanee’s performances alongside Tarkowski and he believes their influence has improved the performances of those around them.

Brown told GIVEMESPORT: “Everton have gone to a back four recently and I was quite worried that would not suit Conor Coady.

“But his partnership with Tarkowski has really looked strong, very solid and very dependable.

“They are two experienced pros who communicate on the pitch and off it. I think they’ve made a big difference to Everton and the confidence that the players around them have.”

Coady and Tarkowski joined an Everton squad bereft of confidence