There is something about Everton left-backs and their ability to attack.
Not only have they been brilliant at set-pieces throughout the entire Premier League era but during the last 15 years, Everton’s creative hub has come from that position too.
First, there was Andy Hinchcliffe who whipped in corners for the head of Big Duncan Ferguson against Liverpool and Manchester United.
Then came David Unsworth. The powerful defender, who could also play centre-back, rifled home penalties with searing ease, hammering the net 23 times from the spot.
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Youngster and now ECHO columnist Michael Ball was equally adept, converting six penalties in his adidas Predators in the late 90s.
The 2000s saw the arrival of Everton’s penalty king. Leighton Baines could do it all.
The Toffees’ all-time top scorer from the spot with 25, his left foot was a wand and, not only was he capable of unleashing free-kick rockets, curling another two against West Ham in the same game, he also regularly featured in the list of Europe’s top assisters.
Some of the finest playmakers on the continent featured in the rundowns of players who created the most goals and sat among them, annually, was the Blues defender from Kirkby.
Now, more than a year on since Baines decided to hang up his boots and take on a coaching role at Finch Farm, Lucas Digne has shown he is worthy of taking the crown.
While the Frenchman doesn’t hit the ball from 12 yards out, he is Everton’s free-kick man, curling home from all manner of angles and distances - who can forget Lincoln away?
Just like Baines before him, Digne is chief creator. Relentless in his pursuit to get up the pitch, the 28-year-old whips in crosses to the frontmen and supporting attacks comes completely natural to him.
While there has been some feeling he has not hit his usual immense standards so far this season, his numbers suggest otherwise. They are right up there as usual.
According to the CLUB game app , Digne has already created 14 chances in the Premier League. That’s two chances per game. From left-back.
In the opening seven leagues matches, he has played 140 forward passes - only 36 have gone backwards - hit 46 crosses and is a hugely positive influence on the team.
However, the reason his form going forward has perhaps gone under the radar is because none of the chances have been taken.
So, while Digne’s assist column may remain empty, he is putting the ball in the mixer and making things happen.
For the time being, as Salomon Rondon gets up to speed following his transfer deadline day arrival, the Venezuelan will be well fed from out wide.
However, what really bodes well for Digne is the return of Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Richarlison to the starting line up.
Up to now, the defender’s ability to excel in a team set up to play on the front foot has been wasted with the attacking duo sidelined by injury.
When the number seven and number nine return though, Digne will put the ball on a plate for them and they will gobble up his chances.
Blues boss Rafa Benitez is keen to get the ball wide, wants to see crosses into the box and so Digne is vital.
Everton wing play will be important this campaign and along with Andros Townsend and Demarai Gray, the Toffees manager can rely on the defender’s effectiveness and efficiency.
The summer signings have rightly taken the plaudits but Everton’s left-back has quietly gone about his work well and remains the Toffees’ creative spark.
Eventually, Digne’s efforts will be rewarded and his team-mates will make sure his chances are converted.
