It was a disappointing day for Everton as they fell to a miserable 4-0 defeat against Manchester United on Saturday - but Rafa Benitez did find one positive in the performance.
With Dominic Calvert-Lewin, Richarlison, and Moise Kean all unavailable, the Toffees started the day with Demarai Gray in an unconventional striker role.
New signings Gray and Andros Townsend both had good chances to get the Blues on the scoresheet, but Benitez reserved praise for his youthful second-half subs.
Anthony Gordon came on for James Rodriguez at half-time, while Nathan Broadhead and Lewis Dobbin also got run outs at Old Trafford.
READ MORE: Benitez makes substitutes admission as he demands commitment and desire
Dobbin, in particular, has caught the attention of Everton supporters during pre-season, having scored three hat-tricks for the U23’s in pre-season.
Producing impressive performances, amid a lack of senior strikers, the 18-year-old has been rewarded with a space among the first team group this summer.
Asked about Dobbin after the United game on Everton TV, Benitez said, “It was an opportunity for the young players to show what they can do.
“Obviously, it's not a game you can have an opinion on, or criticise the boys, because the team was not doing what we have to do against a good team.
“But at least [Dobbin] tried and the other young lads were trying. I'm happy with that.”
With fellow striker Ellis Simms out injured and several of the more senior forwards unavailable, Dobbin has been handed an ideal opportunity during pre-season - and seems to be intent on taking it.
Whether Everton’s number 61 will stay as part of the first team squad when the likes of Calvert-Lewin and Richarlison return - or he simply continues to excel for David Unsworth’s U23’s - remains to be seen.
Though, having taken his chance to impress Benitez, Dobbin has at least put himself on the boss’ radar ahead of the new season and will be hoping to face top-flight opposition again, in the near future.
