The absolute perfect start for Everton and Carlo Ancelotti to the new Premier League season.

The Toffees followed up their superb 1-0 win over Tottenham last weekend, with a comprehensive 5-2 victory over West Brom on Saturday afternoon, with Dominic Calvert-Lewin wreaking havoc with a hat-trick.

But whilst the striker has started the new campaign like a house on fire with four goals in the opening two league games, there was one man who arguably outshone him against West Brom: James Rodriguez.

How big of an Everton fan are you? Can you spot Mikel Arteta from Graham Stuart? This quiz will test your knowledge, try it if you’re brave enough…


 


World Class score: 95% | Expert score: 80% | Veteran score: 65% | Intermediate score: 45% | Amateur score: 30% | Try Again: 5%

The Colombia international had an impressive Premier League debut against Spurs, but really showcased why he could be one of the signings of the season with a virtuouso performance on Saturday.

He scored his first goal in an Everton shirt with a trademark strike from outside the box, arrowing a left-footed effort into the bottom corner and past Sam Johnstone.

But aside from getting on the score-sheet, Rodriguez gave the Toffees that little bit extra in the final third, adding a much-needed cutting edge to their attacks.

Numerous times he looked to play more incisive passes into the likes of Calvert-Lewin and Richarlison, and it was his lofted ball over the top that found the latter in the build-up to Everton's fourth.

As per Sofascore, he had 73 touches over the course of the game, providing an impressive three key passes - a total only bettered by Lucas Digne.

And because of his willingness to take risks and try things, it was no surprise that Rodriguez actually lost possession 19 times. But crucially for Everton, there is a much more positive trade-off.

Whilst not all of Rodriguez's passes or flicks may come off, he has the kind of creativity to unlock defences and make a key difference in games.

Even though Calvert-Lewin may take all the headlines for his hat-trick, it was Rodriguez who was the real hero for Ancelotti on Saturday.