David Unsworth declared that homegrown prospect Anthony Gordon had produced his best showing in an Everton shirt to date after his free-kick secured a dramatic late win for the Blues Under-23s side against Sunderland in the Premier League Cup.
Unsworth's side – who are also closing in on the Premier League 2 title – progressed to the last eight of the competition courtesy of Gordon's 87th minute strike at Southport.
The Goodison Park stalwart – who made 350 appearances for the club over two spells as well as stepping into the breach on two separate occasions to be caretaker boss – said: “It was a great goal and I thought Anthony was terrific tonight.
“That’s the best he’s been since he’s been with us, he led the line brilliantly.
We decided to play him as a centre-forward and not coming in from the sides and he showed great pace and willingness to run in behind.
“He moves beautifully and he’s so fast. He was outstanding.”
Unsworth added: “I said to the players that team-spirit won them the game.
“They are not just great individuals they’ve got a great spirit. They like each other and I know they will always keep going.
“We are probably the fittest team in the league and we will always create opportunities. We’ve scored a couple of late winners now and that’s a sign of a good team.”
Marco Silva identifies what Everton have desperately lacked this season
The opening goal came on 66 minutes when Bassala Sambou expertly slotted home a penalty kick after Gordon had been sent tumbling.
Sunderland's equaliser came out of the blue when Williams Kokolo headed into the top corner of the net from 10 yards on 81 minutes.
However, Everton were not to be denied as Gordon produced a moment of magic to earn a victory that was thoroughly deserved.
