Everton manager David Moyes has praised Thierno Barry’s increasing self-assurance following the striker’s performance last week, as the Toffees prepare to face Leeds United tonight.
Barry netted his fourth goal for Everton in a hard-fought 4-1 victory at Aston Villa, a strike Moyes believes was pivotal in boosting the young forward’s confidence.
“There’s always a thing about being a striker scoring in big games. It was a big game to score against Aston Villa,” Moyes said.
“It was a big game for him. He didn’t get many chances in the game, if any, but the one he did get he took, so that’s more like the way you want them to be, you get one chance then you take it, that’s good.”
The Everton boss also highlighted Barry’s growing vocal presence and leadership in training sessions, signalling a shift in his mentality.
“He was shouting on the training pitch today, which is something that you might say would be normal, but it’s not been normal for Thierno. He’s really feeling his way in and edging his way in. I think he took his goal brilliantly well.”
Moyes emphasised that while Barry still needs to increase his goal output, the signs are promising.
“We need him to get more, that’s a fact. But you’ve got to start somewhere, haven’t you?” he added, stressing that confidence and composure are key for a young striker adapting to Premier League football.
Barry’s breakthrough goal at Villa Park has come at a crucial time for Everton, who are looking to consolidate their position in the mid-table and build momentum in the league.
