Finding a way to get the best out of Gylfi Sigurdsson and Wayne Rooney in the same starting XI has been one of the biggest selection headaches at Everton this season, with both creative midfielders at their most effective when deployed in the space between the engine room and the frontline.

But with the former injured, Sam Allardyce was spared from that conundrum last weekend as Everton travelled to the Bet365 Stadium for a Premier League clash in incredibly hostile weather conditions, and the latter appeared to thrive in the space the Iceland international left behind.

Indeed, Rooney put in an incredibly well-rounded midfield performance, one that saw him create the most chances, launch the most successful crosses and complete the joint-most passes of any Everton player, while making two tackles, two interceptions and landing two shots on target.

Of course, there are some caveats to consider here, chiefly that Stoke went down to ten men after half an hour when Rooney was fouled by Charlie Adam, meaning the former England skipper was allowed more time on the ball than in many of the Premier League games he's been involved in this season.

But the 32-year-old's importance in the 2-1 win highlighted how instrumental he can still be for this Everton side, and once again reopens the question of which attacking midfielder the rest of the team should be structured around.

So, Everton fans, who do you think should be Sam Allardyce's main man? Let us know by voting below...

[ad_pod ]