Holgate was not initially part of Toffees boss Frank Lampard’s starting eleven against West Ham on Sunday, but an injury to Donny van de Beek during the warm-up just before kick-off meant the defender had to step up in midfield.
The 25-year-old managed to hold his own against the Hammers, scoring a goal in the clash, although Everton ultimately lost the game 2-1.
Doucoure, who partnered Holgate in midfield, has revealed the centre-back impressed him with his display and stressed all the Everton players need to step up for the club, just like the defender did on Sunday.
“We saw Mason, he played a very good game”, Doucoure told Everton TV.
“I was very impressed with him.
“Of course, we have to stand up.
“Mason stood up in that game.
“It can be me, can be [Alex] Iwobi, can be Andre Gomes.
“So yes, we are all ready to play and to fight.”
Doucoure added that playing alongside Iwobi and Holgate in the middle of the park on Sunday was a great experience as the winger is comfortable in all positions, while the defender has played in a number 6 role before.
“It was great [playing with Iwobi and Holgate], to be honest.
“Alex is a great player; he can play in all the positions.
“Mason, I have seen in him play as a number 6 before.
“He was very impressive against West Ham.
“So yes, I was very happy for him.”
Van de Beek has been ruled out of tonight’s clash away at Burnley and all eyes will be on who all Lampard will pick in midfield.
