Dwight McNeil has posted a heartfelt message on social media after his first Everton goal sealed a 2-1 victory at Southampton.
The Everton winger completed a quick-fire comeback at St. Mary's yesterday, picking up a loose ball inside the box before smashing the ball past Saints goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu. McNeil's goal came just two minutes after Conor Coady's close-range finish and five after Joe Aribo opened the scoring for the home side.
As well as giving Frank Lampard his second win of the season, McNeil's emphatic finish ended an 18-month goalless period - his last goal was against Everton in March 2021 - that the 22-year-old himself described as a 'drought'.
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That record was often used against the summer arrival when he signed from Burnley for around £20million, and finding the back of the net swiftly will do the world of good.
And after the final whistle, McNeil posted a heartfelt message, acknowledging a tough period for the young forward.
He wrote: "What a feelinggg. My first prem goal for the Toffees, absolutely buzzing. The last few months have been hard both physically and mentally, I have pushed myself to improve and build my confidence and I hope that showed to the fans today. Back to back wins LETS GOOO, UTFT"
One of the telling changes within the Everton squad this season has been team spirit, with the commitment and relief from last season's survival carried through the summer and into a new campaign of optimism. Jubilant scenes after the final whistle this afternoon showed a full away-allocation of Evertonians celebrating with their players.
And several Blues commented on McNeil's post with their own words of encouragement.
Alex Iwobi said: "SUCH A NICE LAD! GRR!". Neal Maupay said: "Nice guy". Demarai Gray said: "Real nice guy today".
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