This archive report was first published on 14 September 2021.
Everton's impressive comeback against Burnley on Monday has seen them move joint top of the Premier League, with Rafael Benitez's side taking 10 points from their opening four league games.
Ben Mee put Burnley in front at Goodison Park, but a three-goal blitz in six minutes just after the hour continued Benitez's strong start as Everton boss.
Michael Keane's header against his old club equalised before Andros Townsend and Demarai Gray turned the game around with a stunning long-range effort and a well-timed finish, respectively.
The Toffees have taken 10 points from their opening four league games under Benitez to move alongside local rivals Liverpool, Chelsea, and top-of-the-table Manchester United.
Everton's comeback was all the more impressive as they had to cope without Dominic Calvert-Lewin, who is set to be absent until October with a broken toe and a thigh injury.
Benitez confirmed before kick-off that Calvert-Lewin would be out for several weeks, and the home side lacked the focal point he normally offers as Burnley had the better of the first-half.
However, a change of system as Andre Gomes replaced Ben Godfrey straight after the equaliser helped the hosts overpower Burnley in the final half hour.
“The reaction of the players, it doesn’t matter the system, was very good,” said Benitez. “You can see the fans, as soon as we attack, they are behind the team.”
Everton's victory was all the more impressive given the absence of Calvert-Lewin, who is set to be out for several weeks with a broken toe and a thigh injury.
Benitez's smart recruitment and tactical acumen are already winning over doubters, with many Everton fans initially sceptical about his appointment due to his past as a Champions League winning manager for Liverpool.
