Frank Lampard praised new signing Amadou Onana for his resilience after the midfielder played a crucial role in Everton's goal against Aston Villa.
The 20-year-old, who was only confirmed as an Everton player this week, came on for his debut despite not yet being fully match fit. He was caught in possession on the halfway line before Villa's second goal.
But he then responded by showing for the ball, driving to the opposition byline and creating the chaos that caused Lucas Digne's own goal.
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Speaking after the game, Lampard heaped credit on Onana's response to the initial setback - though said even in that moment he could take positives.
The Belgium international was dispossessed shortly before Emiliano Buendia doubled Villa's lead late in the second half. It was a cruel introduction to the Premier League - but his attempt to take control of the midfield, as displayed by him showing for possession, was encouraging, Lampard said.
He added: "I've got no problem with the [Aston Villa] second goal because I want midfield players that want to receive the ball, who are positive and want to receive it and play forward. I've thrown Amadou on there when fitness is something we are all striving for with him and he understands that."
Rather than let his confidence drop Onana then fought for possession after the restart and created the chance that allowed Everton back into the game.
Lampard said: "[This showed] he has still got confidence to receive [the ball] and he made a difference with the goal for us. It was a clear show of the kind of qualities he's got so I'm really pleased he got onto the pitch. I don't want to put too much on his shoulders but there is a reason why we signed him and why we pushed so hard for him and I believe we will see that."
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