Howard Kendall: Mikel Arteta back to his best against Hull
THE scoreline says it all about the performance against Hull last weekend, but I was particularly impressed with how Everton won the battle in the middle of the park.
Everton dominated the centre and David Moyes' decision to play Heitinga just in front of the back four worked a treat.
I had my doubts with the Dutchman playing there at first, but he had an outstanding afternoon.
He looked solid and allowed Arteta to have such a massive influence on the game.
There are not many in the game who can open up defences and make such cutting passes as Mikel.
If someone is as comfortable on the ball as that, other players make runs off the ball knowing their side will keep possession.
David Moyes was right when he said Arteta needed games before he could get back to his best.
Someone who needs a personal confidence booster is Yakubu.
He tried hard on Sunday but couldn't get anything on target. After the Hull game one wag suggested we should swap him for Bendtner, who missed a hatful against Burnley the day before.
Then of course, Bendtner got a hat-trick against Porto.
I wouldn't bet against Yakubu responding in similar fashion. He has scored goals at every club he's been at, and has been out for a long time.
Once that sharpness and confidence in front of goal comes back he'll be flying.
As a lone striker he cannot fail to thrive on the support of a midfield with Arteta and Pienaar in it.
He will be mightily encouraged at the quality of through balls they will provide and can't fail to start finding the net soon.
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