Source: Liverpool_Echo
Leon Osman puts Everton FC doubters in their place
FUNNY how quickly things can change: Leon Osman's starting place was in danger last month but an impressive week means it is now one of the most secure in Everton's team.[LNB]When David Moyes recruited Diniyar Bilyaletdinov shortly before the transfer window closed, it was widely assumed that Osman, so long one of Moyes' trusted lieutenants, would be the man to make way in a re-shaped midfield.[LNB]The theory suggested that Steven Pienaar would switch to the right, Bilyaletdinov would slot in on the left and the three places in the middle would go to Phil Neville, Tim Cahill or Marouane Fellaini and Jack Rodwell.[LNB]With his form dipping and him failing to influence games in those difficult opening weeks, it was not a surprise that Moyes decided to drop him to the bench for the recent fixture against AEK Athens.[LNB]That, for certain observers, was a signal that the beginning of the end had started but it is dangerous to make assumptions about any footballer, not least one that has battled back from long-term injuries to forge a successful Premier League career.[LNB]So it should come as no surprise that Osman has responded in such an encouraging manner, sparkling in the 3-0 win over Blackburn Rovers last Sunday before starting and scoring when captaining the Blues to a 4-0 victory at Hull in midweek.[LNB]Though it is not uncommon for some players to sulk when new faces are signed, their noses put out of joint by the thought of competition, Osman is a different character and, as he prepares to face Portsmouth today, is in a positive frame of mind.[LNB]'Everyone needs competition and we all know that means we will get games,' said Osman. 'Personally, I've just worked as hard as I have always done but it's been nice that I have managed to perform in the last two matches.
