Everton fell to another defeat in the Premier League on Saturday, losing 2-0 away at Arsenal, but Harrison Armstrong’s numbers were impressive.

Everton could not respond to the defeat to Chelsea, with Ezri Konsa and Gabriel scoring for the hosts. The Toffees got off to a poor start in the game, conceding from a corner. Then in the second-half, Gabriel was able to nod home after being left unmarked at the back post.

Harrison Armstrong can hold his head high after Everton’s defeat to Arsenal as encouraging numbers emerge

Everton were comfortably beaten by Arsenal, who will surely challenge for the league title again this season.

They just had so much control, especially in midfield. But despite this, Armstrong battled really well in the middle and can hold his head high despite ending up on the losing team.

As per Sofascore data, Armstrong completed 30/34 (88%) passes, and had 55 touches of the ball in the game, with only three of his teammates having more.

But it was his defensive work that was the most eye-catching aspect of his performance. He executed 10 defensive actions in total, with only Jake O’Brien and Gabriel having more in the game. Five of these actions were tackles. He actually also won eight of the 10 duels he contested.

He was also tireless in what was a difficult game, covering 12.6km. This was actually higher than the average distance per 90 he’s managed so far this season (11.9km).

To have performed like this, at one of the hardest places to go to in the Premier League, against one of the best teams and in horrible conditions, just shows how up for the fight he is and how much he deserves to keep starting games for Everton.

Armstrong a shining light for Everton, he must not be dropped

Of course recently, Christian Norgaard returned to the picture after injury, and made his debut against Chelsea.

There is every chance he could be someone Moyes leans on given his experience and leadership, but what’s vital now is that the manager does not discard Armstrong in favour of the Dane.

Armstrong is bringing vitality and energy to that midfield that is most welcome following the summer exit of Idrissa Gana Gueye. He is also establishing himself as a decent ball-winner.

He simply doesn’t deserve to go back to the bench just to accommodate Norgaard, who is certainly not as energetic or tenacious.

If anyone should be dropping out of the midfield at the moment it’s James Garner, who has sadly been unable to recapture the form that made his stand out so often last season.