ANDONI Iraola stated his goalkeeper and captain Neto could do no more despite doubts expressed over the Brazilian’s form in recent weeks.

Fans have questioned Neto’s performances over the last few fixtures, stemming back to the opener during the 2-2 draw away at Brentford.

Further questions were raised over a mix-up between Neto and Kerkez that saw the latter head past the former away at Brighton, before a weak punch at Goodison allowed Jack Harrison to loft the ball over the goalie for Everton’s second.

Throughout the contest Neto looked uncomfortable at corners, frequently attempting to punch the ball clear rather than gather.

However, it cannot be said that the 33-year-old was at fault for Everton’s other goals in the 3-0 defeat.

Iraola pointed out that the former Valencia and Fiorentina man brought communication and confidence to a “very young back-line.”

Asked if he had any concerns over Neto’s form, Iraola told the Daily Echo: “Neto is the captain, he is the one especially giving a very young back-line these kind of instructions, communication and confidence.

“I think he is doing well. I don’t think probably he could do more. The second goal you think? I don’t know, I haven’t rechecked it, but it is a very good goal from Jack Harrison also.

“I think the key was the 1-0, because it takes a lot of things from you and it gives them a lot of things. With the way it happened, we weren’t the same (after) playing from the back.”

So far this campaign Cherries have conceded 18 times in eight games with Neto in between the sticks.

In total, the one-time Brazilian international has made 36 appearances since arriving from Barcelona last summer, recording seven clean sheets.

Neto was appointed captain in February 2023 by former head coach Gary O’Neil.