Is Evanilson The Most Underrated Striker In The Premier League?

Evanilson is quickly making a compelling case to be considered one of the Premier League’s most underrated strikers, with the Brazilian offering far more to AFC Bournemouth than simply putting the ball in the back of the net.

His performances this season have highlighted why he is so important to Marco Rose’s side, combining intelligent movement, excellent hold-up play and impressive link-up ability with a growing contribution in front of goal.

With three goals and four assists in his first eight Premier League appearances this season, Evanilson has already demonstrated his value as both a goalscorer and a creator. His four assists are particularly significant, underlining his ability to link up with Marcus Tavernier, who is also in fine goal scoring form this season. 

What makes Evanilson so effective, however, extends well beyond those numbers.

His hold-up play is arguably one of the most underappreciated aspects of his game. The Brazilian is capable of receiving the ball with defenders tight to him, using his strength to protect possession before bringing AFCB's wingers into play. Against teams that press aggressively, having a striker who can retain possession under pressure provides an essential outlet.

That brings us to his link-up play. Evanilson understands when to drop deeper, when to release the ball quickly and when to occupy defenders to create space for the likes of Rayan and Marcus Tavernier. His intelligent movement helps Bournemouth transition from midfield into attack, giving Cherries a focal point around which their forward line can operate.

The difference when Evanilson is absent is particularly noticeable. Bournemouth's attacking play can become clunky without him, with moves breaking down because there is no natural focal point capable of holding up the ball and connecting different phases of possession as well as he does. 

As well as this, his international prospects should also be part of the conversation.

Brazil should seriously consider Evanilson for another international opportunity alongside his partner in crime Rayan. While Brentford's Igor Thiago has earned recognition for his goalscoring exploits, Evanilson offers a different profile that could prove equally valuable to Carlo Ancelotti. Furthermore, Joao Pedro is still out injured, and Igor Thiago has had a very slow start to the season.

Ultimately, Evanilson remains a striker whose contribution is sometimes overlooked because so much of his best work happens before the final shot. His goals and assists are important, but his influence on Bournemouth's entire attacking structure is arguably even more significant.