When James Tarkowski wheeled away with joy after opening Everton’s account against Burnley last month, he cupped his ears in celebration.

Outside the dressing rooms of Hill Dickinson Stadium later that night, he admitted he was unsure why he went for that reaction - one that replicated his response in front of the Gwladys Street when he etched his name in Everton folklore by lashing home the stoppage time equaliser that denied Liverpool a win in the final Merseyside derby at Goodison Park.

Both Tarkowski and David Moyes appeared to reach a similar conclusion - that it was the 33-year-old’s answer to his manager’s pleas for more goals. Given this header set up a first home win in eight and left Everton well-positioned for a tilt at Europe, one they have since built on with the recent hammering of Chelsea, it was a big goal from a player who has been vital to the three managers he has played for since he arrived at Everton in the summer of...