Despite some brilliant performances for Southampton prior to his move to Manchester United in 2015, Morgan Schneiderlin failed to make an impression at Old Trafford under Louis van Gaal and then Jose Mourinho, before joining Everton during the January transfer window.

Since then, regular first team minutes and the opportunity to work under Ronald Koeman, who was his manager during his final season at St Mary’s, again appear to have seen the Frenchman reclaim his best form.

He has quickly become a key player for the Toffees in recent weeks as the Merseyside outfit look to achieve European football next season, and while the likes of Romelu Lukaku and Ross Barkley are getting many of the plaudits, it was Schneiderlin who proved key in the 3-0 win against West Bromwich Albion at Goodison Park on Saturday.

As well as his defensive contribution, the 27-year-old continues to be a threat at the other end of the pitch too because of his forward runs – something that Koeman added to his game with the Saints – and his sublime finish to put the hosts 2-0 just before half-time was key.

While one shot from one goal is impressive and helped his new team to victory, it was his stats from a defensive point of view that were also vital to the Toffees keeping a clean sheet against Tony Pulis’ men.

Schneiderlin won two headed duels, as well as making three interceptions and two clearances. The midfielder has consistently proven that he uses the ball effectively once he has won it back, and that showed against the Baggies where he ended the game with a pass accuracy of 89%.

The 27-year-old found himself removed from the France national team as he struggled for first team minutes at Old Trafford, but showings like this one will soon see him back in manager Didier Deschamps’ plans.