Garth Crooks claims Rafa Benitez owes Everton star Richarlison after Southampton win

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Garth Crooks has told BBC Sport that Rafa Benitez owes a debt of gratitude to Richarlison after Everton beat Southampton on the opening day of the season.

There was a huge sense of intrigue surrounding Goodison Park ahead of the Premier League curtain-raiser.

Of course, it is strange for many to see Benitez in charge of the Toffees. And it has not been the easiest summer window for Everton.

But they kicked off the new campaign with a win. They came from behind to beat the Saints 3-1 on Merseyside.

It was Richarlison who equalised. And it was his cross that allowed Dominic Calvert-Lewin to make the points safe with nine minutes remaining.

Crooks named the 24-year-old in his Team of the Week. And the pundit went on to suggest that Benitez has a lot to thank the forward for.

“While other international players are having extended holidays in order to recover from the Euros, Richarlison answers the call of club and country with equal measure and without fear or favour,” he told BBC Sport.

“I think Rafa Benitez owes this lad a debt of gratitude. If Benitez loses the opening game, the Everton boo boys – who hate his association with their Liverpool rivals – are suddenly after him. Richarlison has given him a brilliant start and bought him valuable time.”

Richarlison outstanding as Everton secure important three points against Southampton

Obviously, Richarlison was key in scoring one and setting up another. But his all-round game was outstanding.

As shown by Whoscored, only Andros Townsend contributed more key passes. Meanwhile, he completed three successful dribbles.

And he also made three successful tackles from three attempts.

It was an emphatic reminder of how important the former Watford man can be when he is at his absolute best.

Benitez will have certainly received a huge boost if his display is a sign of what is to come from the forward this season.