Thierno Barry names Erling Haaland as inspiration after Everton goal-scoring surge

Everton striker Thierno Barry has revealed that Manchester City forward Erling Haaland is his biggest inspiration as he continues to make his mark in the Premier League following another impressive goal-scoring display.

The French striker credited the Norwegian international for influencing his development after scoring twice in Everton’s victory over Coventry on Friday night, taking his tally to 10 goals for the season.

Barry has enjoyed a productive spell in front of goal, finding the net in consecutive matches against Newcastle United and Coventry as Everton recorded their third victory in eight days.

His latest brace further underlined his growing influence in David Moyes’ attack, with the 23-year-old emerging as one of the standout performers during the club’s recent run of results.

The two goals also moved Barry level with Liverpool’s Alexander Isak in the Premier League scoring charts, with only Haaland having scored more goals at the time.

Speaking after the Coventry encounter, Barry expressed his delight at his recent performances but insisted that his priority remains helping Everton secure victories rather than focusing solely on individual achievements.

“It’s always a pleasure to score and for my team to win so I’m very happy. I just work a lot during this summer so we can see the results so I’m happy and I need to continue like this to help my team win every game.

“To be fair sometimes it is difficult when you miss a lot of chances your mind is sometimes bad but I always work to do my best.”

Barry reveals Haaland influence as Golden Boot ambitions emerge

The Everton forward also disclosed that Haaland has played a significant role in shaping his approach to the game, admitting that he regularly studies footage of the Manchester City striker to improve his own performances.

Haaland has established himself as one of Europe’s most prolific forwards since arriving in England, and Barry appears keen to replicate some of the Norwegian’s movement, positioning and finishing ability.

The Frenchman was particularly pleased to be mentioned alongside the City striker in discussions about the Premier League’s leading goalscorers.

Barry did not hide his admiration for Haaland, revealing that he would relish the opportunity to compete with him for the Golden Boot.

“I’m very happy because I’m a fan of him. I watch a lot of videos of him and try and do the things he does. If I can play with him until the end to get the Golden Boot I will try.”

His comments reflect the confidence growing around the striker after an encouraging run of performances that has strengthened his position as an important figure in Moyes’ side.

Moyes backs Barry to maintain impressive form

Everton manager David Moyes was equally impressed with the forward’s contribution against Coventry, describing his performance as “fabulous”.

The Scottish coach also joked that Haaland would now have to be concerned about Barry’s challenge in the Premier League scoring race.

Beyond his goals, Moyes highlighted the striker’s improvement in adapting to English football, particularly his communication, understanding and ability to find dangerous positions inside the opposition penalty area.

“Haaland’s worried about him catching him now! I don’t see many young centre-forwards scoring loads of goals in the Premier League. He’s settled down a bit more now. His language, his understanding and his communication is much better as well. Obviously he’s working hard to get in those positions to score. I’m really pleased for him.”

The manager’s assessment reflects the progress Barry has made as he becomes increasingly comfortable with the demands of the Premier League.

Everton eye European push as Coventry face relegation pressure

Barry’s latest contribution also strengthened Everton’s position in the race for European qualification, with the Merseyside club climbing to fifth in the standings after securing three wins in eight days.

Moyes’ side are gathering momentum at an important stage of the campaign, and Barry’s growing influence in attack could prove crucial as they attempt to sustain their challenge for a European place.