Matthew Upson waxed lyrical about Iliman Ndiaye after he scored for Everton against Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium on Boxing Day.
The Toffees looked to be in contention after the hosts took an early lead through Bernardo Silva on Thursday (December 26), but Ndiaye’s equalizer almost came out of nowhere.
Impressed by the 24-year-old Senegal international, Upson called the finish “special” and praised the technique with which he hit the net.
“It’s easy to criticize, the defense is a bit a statuesque, I have to say, but I’m not taking anything away from this conclusion. It’s a special conclusion,” Upson said on Amazon Prime (December 26, 13:07).
“How quickly he took it, Ndiaye. His first touch is absolutely perfect, he doesn’t give Ric Lewis a chance, that half-volley, the moment it bounces – bang!
“With his right foot, absolutely inch perfect, it’s a hell of a finish, it really is. Superb Ndiaye, he’s really punishing Manchester City.”
Matthew Upson praises Iliman Ndiaye after Everton’s goal against Manchester City
It was clear from the kick-off that Sean Dyche’s side were ready to pull away and hit the hosts on the counter-attack.
But the plan backfired when Silva’s shot deflected off Jarrad Branthwaite and went straight into the net, leaving Jordan Pickford helpless.
Although the Toffees struggled to test Stefano Ortega in the City goal, Silva missed the chance to double the lead and allow the visitors to get back into the game.

It was the 36th minute when Ndiaye equalized for Everton with a great finish.
The former Sheffield United man was spotted in training on Christmas Day as most of his team-mates celebrated with their families.
The forward’s efforts paid off as he scored his third Premier League goal of the season.
It remains to be seen whether he can now fire the Merseyside-based club to victory over Pep Guardiola’s side.
Manchester City are there after losing their last three games in all competitions.