Everton tasted defeat for the first time this season on Saturday, but Anders Limpar believes the Toffees have a player who is going to make a big difference in the coming weeks.

Everton lost 2-0 to Chelsea at Hill Dickinson Stadium, with Pedro Neto scoring twice for the visitors.

There was disappointment about the way Everton approached the game. Chelsea’s attacking prowess has been well documented, but so have their defensive woes and their backline was not put under much pressure.

In the end, Everton conceded their unbeaten run fairly easily – and Moyes has been coming in for criticism.

His decision to put on Christian Norgaard has been heavily questioned, given that the Dane is a defensive midfielder and Everton were chasing the game. For Andres Limpar though, Norgaard’s return is huge.

Christian Norgaard tipped to make huge Everton impact

Norgaard had a rather forgettable debut against Chelsea, as he was sent on in the 85th minute.

The game was frenetic, and sadly his lack of match sharpness was immediately exposed, as he conceded a three-vs-one counter opportunity.

He also gave away the free-kick which led to the second Chelsea goal, picking up a yellow card for his troubles. It was clear to see that he was off the pace, but Moyes wanted to get minutes into Norgaard’s legs.

Many fans are arguing that it was not the right time for him to play, but clearly Moyes felt he could bring something, and it seems the manager will be ready to turn to him more regularly once his fitness is up to scratch.

And former Everton midfielder Anders Limpar believes Norgaard could become vital. He said (via Liverpool Echo): “Christian Norgaard only just got his debut but when he is fully fit, he will be the engine of the team. He is going to run the show for Everton.”

What Norgaard will bring to Everton

Norgaard is going to bring a bit of discipline to the Everton midfield. He is an out-and-out number six, and will provide protection for the back four. The other midfielders for Everton can all perform several roles. Norgaard being that specialist will be helpful for the Toffees in terms of having a bit more control.

Everton have conceded a lot of transitions leading to chances so far this season. In his last term at Brentford, Norgaard ranked very highly for winning the ball in the final third, snuffing out attacks before they could even start, which could be an important trait if he can bring it for Everton.

Then, of course, there is his leadership and the general calm that he brings.

He didn’t have a very good debut, but he was thrown into that Chelsea game in difficult circumstances, and Limpar’s prediction could well ring true.

What will be interesting is if Moyes actually makes him a regular, with young Harrison Armstrong having produced a string of great displays so far. In theory, he’d be the most at risk of losing his place to the Dane.