Kenyan midfielder unable to help Everton in Aston Villa drubbing

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PREMIER LEAGUE: Kenyan midfielder unable to help Everton in Aston Villa drubbing

Festus Chuma 19:00 - 20.08.2023

England-born Kenyan midfielder was brought on in the 98th minute as Everton succumbed to Aston Villa in a disappointing 4-0 defeat.

England-born Kenyan youngster Tyler Onyango came on as a substitute in added time as Everton lost 4-0 to Aston Villa in a Premier League match played on Sunday afternoon at Villa Park.

The match saw Aston Villa dominate the field, capitalizing on their opportunities to secure a convincing victory.

John McGinn opened the scoring for the home side after just 18 minutes, displaying impeccable positioning to convert Leon Bailey's well-placed cross.

The pressure on Everton continued to mount when Douglas Luiz doubled Villa lead from the penalty spot, capitalizing on a foul by Jordan Pickford on Ollie Watkins inside the box.

Even though the Toffees goalkeeper, Jordan Pickford, managed to deny Moussa Diaby attempt and temporarily prevent Villa from extending their lead, Everton's woes escalated when Dominic Calvert-Lewin was forced to exit the pitch due to a head injury sustained in a collision with Emiliano Martinez.

The second half brought no respite for Everton struggling defense, as Leon Bailey seized upon a defensive lapse just five minutes in, cementing Villa dominance with a powerful close-range finish that left Pickford with little chance to intervene.

Managerial substitutions aimed at turning the tide seemed insufficient, and as the clock ticked on, Everton misery was further compounded when substitute Jhon Duran capitalized on an error in Everton defense.

Duran's clinical finish showcased Villa efficiency in converting mistakes into opportunities, pushing the scoreline to a resounding 4-0 in their favor. 

Tyler Onyango, a young talent born to a Kenyan father and English mother, was brought in the 98th minute but was unable to help the side in the added time.

While the match showcased the trials and tribulations of Everton on-field efforts, a notable storyline unfolded on the sidelines.

Onyango's journey through the ranks of Everton academy has been remarkable.

Joining the academy at the tender age of eight, he steadily climbed the ranks and earned his senior debut at just 17 years old in a memorable FA Cup encounter against Sheffield Wednesday in January 2021.

On the international stage, Onyango potential is evident. He has already made appearances for the England U17 national team, showcasing his prowess against top-level competition.

Despite his ties to England, Onyango eligibility for selection by the Kenyan National team, Harambee Stars, remains intact.

This eligibility has sparked debates and decisions, including a pivotal moment during the 2022 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

Onyango made headlines when he turned down a call-up to represent Kenya, despite being invited by then-coach Engin Firat.

This decision left fans and pundits alike speculating about his international allegiance and the path he would ultimately choose.