Paul Merson thinks Everton are a better team after the summer signings of Alex Iwobi and Moise Kean, and Marco Silva just needs to stick by the pair.

Iwobi moved to Everton in a surprise deadline-day deal, despite almost no previous suggestion over the rest of the summer that he was likely to depart.

The 23-year-old has made a strong start to life with his new club, scoring headers in both of his starts, one against Lincoln City in the League Cup, the other against Wolves in the Premier League.

The front-three of Iwobi, Richarlison and fellow new signing Kean were all involved in the goals against Wolves. Paul Merson thinks Everton boss Marco Silva should stick by them to achieve success this season.

“Getting beaten by Villa was a blessing in disguise,” Merson began (via Punchng). “I think it woke a few players up.

“Marco Silva changed his team after that and it’s starting to click.  They’re a better team now with Alex Iwobi and Moise Kean. Both have to play. If he sticks with it they won’t be miles away.”

Despite having joined the club at the last minute, Iwobi has played more minutes for Everton this season than the other former Gunner at the club, Theo Walcott.

Although the pair aren’t directly competing for a position, the fact that Iwobi is on the left shifts Richarlison over to the right and forces Walcott out of the team.

It’s going to be interesting to see how the 30-year-old responds, and whether he can earn a place back. The early signs do suggest Everton are better with their current front three, so it won’t be an easy task.