Everton striker Romelu Lukaku has said that he is feeling refreshed after enjoying a long break this summer.

The Belgium international has admitted that he was not at his best last term after missing pre-season due to the World Cup in Brazil.

The 22-year-old enjoyed an outstanding 2013/14 season on loan at Goodison Park, scoring 15 times in 31 Premier League appearances for the club but, following his permanent £28million switch to Everton last summer he struggled at times, although he still managed to find the net 12 times.

Lukaku was very impressive in Saturday’s fine 3-0 win at Southampton though, scoring twice at St Mary’s.

Roberto Martinez’s side now have four points from their first two Premier League matches following their opening weekend draw with Watford and Lukaku is pleased with the start he has made to the campaign.

He said of his display against Saints: “That is in my top three performances since I joined Everton.

“I felt strong on Saturday, I scored two and was in the build-up for the other one and I was good at running in behind the defence and holding the ball up.

“I’ve started well compared to last season. Without any pre-season I wasn’t ready for the league and it took me six months to get to my level but now I am fit so there is no excuse to perform like I did last year.”

Everton face Manchester City on Sunday and are 4.75 to beat Manuel Pellegrini’s side. City are 1.67 to win at Goodison Park, while the draw is available at 4.00.