Amadou Onana admits he is just trying to 'be the best version' of himself and refuses to get pulled in to comparisons with former Everton favourite Marouane Fellaini.
The Toffees midfielder made his World Cup debut when coming on at half-time during Wednesday's 1-0 win against Canada, and earned high praise from his country's media for an all-action midfield performance that helped to turn the tide amid Canadian pressure. Onana hassled and harried defensively while picking his moments to burst forwards into dangerous areas.
It was a 45-minute spell that accurately reflected three months spent at Goodison Park since arriving from Lille for £33million. The 21-year-old had a drama-filled debut in the 2-1 defeat to Aston Villa, despite playing just 10 minutes, and has seemingly covered every blade of every pitch he's played on since.
READ MORE: Everton news and transfers LIVE - Sasa Lukic battle, Dele Alli rejection, Dennis Geiger links
READ MORE: Exclusive: Tom Cannon sends message to Frank Lampard after 'surreal' Everton experience
Such performances in an Everton shirt have inevitably led to comparisons with fellow Belgian Blue Fellaini, whose physical and dynamic performances drove the Toffees forward time and time again. But Onana has distanced himself from these conversations, humbly admitting that he still has so much to learn.
"With all the humility that I have, I will never make this comparison of myself," Onana told Walfoot. "Marouane was essential for the Devils but I think we have different styles. I'm not trying to be Marouane Fellaini, I'm trying to be the best version of myself on the pitch".
"I miss a lot of things, at 21. I have the chance to play with the best players in the world. Eden, Axel, Romelu, I could name the whole team."
"I can learn from all the players even those in the lower leagues. I'm open to learning and I take advice where I can take it."
Onana is in line to start in Belgium's next World Cup game after his brilliant performance on Wednesday. The Red Devils face Morocco on Sunday before a final Group F clash against Croatia on Thursday December 1.
READ NEXT
