Everton midfielder Ross Barkley is targeting an improved tally of goals this season after getting on the scoresheet in Saturday’s 2-2 draw with Watford.
Barkley hit the Toffees’ first equaliser at Goodison Park as the plucky Hornets denied Roberto Martinez an opening-day victory.
Arouna Kone scored late on to rescue a point for the home side, with Barkley taking a positive from the spirit shown in avoiding defeat.
“Watford have just been promoted, they were really enthusiastic and put us under pressure but we put in a good effort to twice come back from a goal down. We showed some character but it’s disappointing not to get the three points,” the 21-year-old said.
Having scored seven goals in the 2013/14 campaign, Barkley could manage no more than two last term so was understandably delighted with Saturday’s thunderous strike from 25-yards and he says he is working hard to get on the scoresheet more regularly this season.
“I was disappointed with my goal tally last year so to get my first goal in the first game is really good for my confidence,” he told the Everton website.
“That’s what creative midfielders and attacking midfielders have got to do so it’s good to get my first goal of the season.
“I’m working on [striking from distance] and I’m working on trying to get a few tap-ins as well.”
Everton face the first of four tough fixtures when they go to St Mary’s on Saturday to face Southampton, a game they are 4.00 to win. Saints are 1.95 with the draw available at 3.25.
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