Everton find snarling hero and useful nuisance who could save season

Three hours before kick-off Richarlison tweeted his goalscoring record. Taking centre stage of the graphic, which depicted how many he had scored for club and country, was the famous crest of Everton.

While he - or whoever was manning his social media accounts at 4.45pm on Wednesday - marked his feats there was one glaring, unachieved landmark within his grasp: His fiftieth strike for the Blues.

This has been far from a vintage season for the 24-year-old. Few will be able to walk away from this campaign without regrets. But in recent weeks, as Everton have needed a hero, he has emerged.

Against Newcastle United he bit and snarled at the centre backs of the resurgent Magpies, causing them no end of trouble until, tired and bruised, they allowed Alex Iwobi to stride through the heart of their defence and send Goodison Park into raptures.

At Burnley, two weeks ago, he ravaged the home side’s defence. A danger every time he got the ball, he fought for possession, shone with his skill and showcased his pace as he left defenders - and big striker Wout Weghorst - chasing his shadow.

Everton’s snatching of a devastating defeat from the jaws of victory at Turf Moor undermined a performance so impressive even without his coolness from the spot.

And then at home to Manchester United it was the Brazilian who played a crucial role in Anthony Gordon’s winner.

In truth, Richarlison struggled tonight. He missed two glaring opportunities, one in each half and both from close range.

Yet as he battled for influence he kept on fighting. With Anthony Gordon, another who has enjoyed better nights, he spent the last 15 minutes showing for the ball and luring defenders into fouls.

It was Richarlison who hunted down an opponent to win a corner