Everton's Merlin Röhl had a mixed first season at the club, with injuries and inconsistent playing time. However, he can learn from Leighton Baines' patience and perseverance during his early days at the club.

What happened to Röhl's first season?

Röhl's campaign was interrupted by injury, and despite some positive performances, he didn't get another chance to play until the start of May. He took his chance, though, and demonstrated enough to ensure his season wasn't a failure.

Why it matters for Everton

With Everton still attempting to sign Hayden Hackney, but doubts over the futures of Idrissa Gana Gueye and Tim Iroegbunam, Röhl has done enough to ensure he will be utilised in his preferred position next season. The club's current league standing is 13th in the Premier League, with 49 points from 38 games, and a recent form of LLDDL. | Stat | Value | | --- | --- | | League standing | 13th | | Points | 49 | | Recent form | LLDDL |

What comes next for Röhl?

Röhl has a great relationship with Leighton Baines, and the two share similar interests and desires. Baines' story at Everton is one of patience and perseverance, and Röhl can learn from his journey. Baines initially joined from Wigan Athletic in 2007 but wasn't an instant hit, with injuries and a lack of form restricting his minutes. However, he overcame his niggles, earned David Moyes' trust, and went on to become a key player for the club. Röhl can take inspiration from Baines' story and work towards establishing himself in the team. The current situation at the club, with players like J. Branthwaite, J. Grealish, and I. Gueye currently sidelined, presents an opportunity for Röhl to make his mark.