Exclusive: Abdoulaye Doucouré Claims Everton “Started This Competition To Reach Wembley”

Everton’s Abdoulaye Doucouré reflected on the team’s upcoming FA Cup fixture against AFC Bournemouth, their impressive recent run and how African players are growing in the premier league, in an exclusive interview with Sportsboom, arranged by Showmax Premier League.

The previous game was a hard fought victory for the Toffees in the third round of the FA Cup fixture against League One opponents Peterborough United. Fans found themselves on the edge of their seats while witnessing the battle unfold between the two sides. However, it was the premier league team that advanced to the next round with a 2-0 final scoreline. 

Their win secured them a spot in the fourth round of the competition where they find themselves up against Andoni Iraola's AFC Bournemouth. The premier league side, Bournemouth are on a great run this season, which is currently mounting them in a European competition spot in the league at the moment. 

Hence, this will not be a walk in the park for The Blues. Everton has to be resilient to clench the win and advance to the next round. 

“We started this competition to go to Wembly. That is the main aim for myself and the team. Our opponents Bournemouth is a very good side but we play at home so this is an advantage for us. We hope to win and qualify for the next round.” Abdoulaye stated to SportsBoom.com. 

DOUCOURE: WE WANT TO KEEP WINNING GAMES 

With a baffling first half of the season for Everton, the Merseyside team find themselves just two positions clear from the relegation zone. However, it seems that their inconsistency this season has come to a halt. 

“It was going to happen. We didn’t have as many wins earlier on in the season especially at that time because we had a very tough phase.” 

Especially with David Moyes returning to the club, there definitely seems to be a change of mentality within the team. The Toffees have shifted into gear with three wins in their previous three games. The team go into their FA Cup fixture following a sumptuous 4-0 win over Leicester City in the league this past weekend. 

“We have to give our maximum. It’s had a good impact on the team. It’s a good atmosphere now and we just want to keep winning games. Football is just up and down. When it doesn’t go so well we just need to focus on what we can do well and what we can improve on. The mental stage is very important to be strong. You have to be able to take some setbacks and personally, that’s what I did.”

Year after year the magic of the FA Cup captivates football fans around the globe. With the competition being the oldest national football competition in the world as well as playing host to the non-league teams from England, massive talent from all over the world is showcased. 

“Ever since I came to the premier league I see more and more African players so this is a great place to be. The talent in Africa is massive and the teams are now looking for players like that. That’s good for Africa and that’s good for the Premier League. You can see every nationality here. That’s why everyone wants to come here. It’s also great to see that even the academies have a lot of African players.”

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