Maitland-Niles says he had 'goosebumps' from Hill Dickinson noise after dramatic debut goal

Ainsley Maitland-Niles has said his first experience of the Hill Dickinson Stadium atmosphere gave him 'goosebumps'.

Maitland-Niles made an impact to remember at the weekend with his dramatic debut goal earning Everton a point against Manchester United.

The 29-year-old's fantastic finish was arguably the best scored at Everton's new waterside home to date, arriving deep into stoppage time to spark an eruption among the Evertonian support.

Maitland-Niles said he knew he was joining a loud fanbase after arriving from Lyon on deadline day, but admits the noise at Hill Dickinson exceeded even those expectations.

“It’s louder than Goodison – put it that way. And Goodison was really rocking when I was there. Goosebumps.

“Words can’t describe how I feel," he said.

Maitland-Niles had limited time to get up to speed with the group before his debut from the bench, but said he has settled in well in the dressing room. He's been impressed by the quality in the squad and is confident Everton can have a successful season.

“All the boys are great,” he added. “The gaffer’s great, as well. We’re looking forward to doing more work together.

“It’s a fighting team. From the first few days I entered the pitch with the rest of the team, you could see they’re fighters.

“If you’re not a fighter here, they won’t respect you. So, you have to earn your respect by fighting as much as they do – if not more.

“We’ve got quality out wide, quality in the middle, quality all over, so we can definitely do something this season."

 

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