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After scoring an equalizer and replicating Cristiano Ronaldo's trademark Siu celebration in a Premier League match against Manchester United on Saturday, Everton winger Andros Townsend has revealed the reason behind his celebration. Manchester United held the possession for 72% of the game and scored in the first half at Old Trafford as Anthony Martial netted a brilliant goal in the 43rd minute.
The Toffees only had 28% of possession but aimed a few shots on goal, even though only one of Townsend’s shot found the net and provided them an equalizer in the 65th minute. After the goal, Townsend was ecstatic and replicated what is famously known as Ronaldo’s Siu celebration to celebrate the goal.
It was a mark of respect to one of my idols: Townsend
The 30-year old Townsend revealed the Siu celebration was not meant to be anything but it was a mark of respect to his idol Cristiano Ronaldo. “Not imitating, it's just a mark of respect to a guy who influenced my career," Townsend said to BT Sport.
The English winger Townsend, who is in great form said that he has spent hours analysing Ronaldo’s free kicks and step-overs. “I spent many hours on the training pitch and in the video room trying to analyse his free kicks and his step-overs and the way he dedicated himself to football.”
“So it wasn't an imitation, it was a mark of respect to one of my idols. I probably didn't do the celebration justice and didn't execute it properly,” the Englishman added. After the match, Townsend swapped Jerseys with Ronaldo and shared the picture of the latter’s jersey on his social media.
English winger Townsend is in great form
The English footballer Andros Townsend has been in great form since his arrival at Everton from Crystal Palace. The Englishman has scored five goals in nine matches and has impressed everyone. He accepts that he is loving his game right now and added he is capable of big things. "I'm loving my football and I'm so happy to have the opportunity to play for Everton.
"I've said I should be scoring on a more consistent basis. For one reason or another, I've never done it over the course of the season. It's been a good start but I'm capable of much more,” Townsend said.
Currently standing 4th on the points table of the Premier League 2021, Everton will now square off against West Ham United on October 17 before facing Watford on October 23.
