When Djibril Sidibé arrived at Everton in the summer, there were plenty of fans who were delighted with the move.
Signing a World Cup-winning right-back on loan with a reasonable purchase option to provide competition in a position that desperately needed it, was great business.
Unfortunately, the beginning of the campaign has not been easy for the Sidibé, though, with Everton manager Marco Silva preferring Seamus Coleman at right-back.
Recent weeks have seen that change, though, as a suspension for Coleman has seen Sidibé given his chance.
He’s taken that with both hands, impressing against both West Ham and Brighton, and earning plenty of positive reviews as a result.
It’s been just rewards for the patience shown by the defender, and his agent admits he knew he’d have to wait to get his chance.
“Everton absolutely wanted him, with the idea of preparing for the next generation in the position since Coleman is 31 years old.
“After, when you arrive on loan, you do not have the same status as when you were bought €25m, the sum that Atlético de Madrid proposed in 2018 to Monaco.
“And even, look at Moise Kean, bought by Everton for €40m last summer! He does not have many opportunities either.
“Players who go to the Premier League know that in England it sometimes takes a little more time than elsewhere before you get a chance.”
One of the biggest challenges for Sidibé so far has been proving his fitness, having battled back from a severe knee injury last year.
There were some concerns that the injury was one he would not be able to come back from, particularly when he struggled for his best form at Monaco last year.
However, Diabaté insists his fitness is no longer an issue with his client now focusing on fighting for his place, and potentially future, at Everton.
“He has no more physical worries,” he added.
“When he replayed recently, he went on long runs, tackled, centred.
“The second part of last season in Monaco allowed him to recover even if his performances were not at the top, like those of the team, which ended up escaping relegation.
“After, he wanted to change the air. We will take stock at the end of the season. He knows it’s not going to be easy, but he’s here to fight, as he always has. “
