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Everton told Ainsley Maitland-Niles ‘not a proper defender’ after 20-month right-back search

Everton brought in former Arsenal player Ainsley Maitland-Niles from Olympique Lyonnais on September 1 after a near 20-month search for a new right-back…

By Chris Beesley · Liverpool Echo

Published: Friday, 23 October 2026 at 5:00 AM

Key Things to Know

Alan Smith claimed Everton recruit Ainsley Maitland-Niles is not "a proper defender" after recent defensive mistakes.
Everton signed Maitland-Niles on a permanent transfer from Olympique Lyonnais for £4 million on September 1.
David Moyes spent nearly 20 months searching for a right-back following Seamus Coleman's retirement and Nathan Patterson's exit.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Former Arsenal striker Alan Smith stated that Everton right-back Ainsley Maitland-Niles is not "a proper defender" following recent defensive errors. Everton signed the 29-year-old on September 1 from Olympique Lyonnais for a £4 million fee, ending manager David Moyes's nearly 20-month pursuit of a new right-back.

Maitland-Niles faces scrutiny ahead of facing Arsenal after being implicated in recent goals conceded against Hull City and Chelsea. While Everton leadership views him as an experienced defender with over 150 full-back appearances, Smith questioned whether Moyes will start him at the Emirates Stadium.

Read the full article on Liverpool Echo

Everton told Ainsley Maitland-Niles ‘not a proper defender’ after 20-month right-back search

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