Dominic Calvert-Lewin said celebrating a goal in front of the Everton fans “is why I play football” after smashing home a penalty in the club’s 2-2 draw with Leicester City.
The striker is enduring his second consecutive injury-blighted season and was playing at the King Power Stadium having overcome a troubling hamstring injury that had kept him out for more than two months.
His return to goalscoring ways was not enough to seal a vital three points for Everton in this relegation battle. But it was another step forward for a player who is central to the Blues’ hopes.
PLAYER RATINGS: Everton player ratings as Michael Keane struggles but four decent against Leicester
MATCH VERDICT: Everton have just made crucial change that could save them from relegation
Calvert-Lewin converted from 12 yards after being bundled over by Timothy Castagne before taking in the adulation of a stunning away end that provided the soundtrack to this match. It was the first blow in a frantic game that offered positives for Sean Dyche as Everton overcame the adversity of going behind and losing club captain Seamus Coleman to injury in a sickening first half collision.
Speaking after the match, Calvert-Lewin said of his goal: “It’s massive for myself, I took my last penalty over a year ago and it didn’t end in the same way so it was a good one for me personally, it’s a boost in confidence and just nice to be able celebrate in front of the Everton fans again.”
Calvert-Lewin said he was not nervous as he stepped up for his penalty, trusting his preparation for such moments. The prospect of the goalscoring high is what has kept him going through his battles with injury. He added: “That is all I cling onto. You have to keep believing those moments are going to come because if you don’t it is a long road back. I’ve had a fair few setbacks but I am here now.”
Asked how it felt being able to celebrate again with the fans of the club his talent is pivotal to, he said: “I’ve missed it so much, it’s why I play football - for the sheer emotion and my love of the game and the fans’ love of the game. There is no better feeling than scoring a goal and celebrating in front of the fans and I have missed that.”
READ NEXT:
Sam Allardyce could be about to enter Everton relegation battle with shock rival appointment
Seamus Coleman still sends message from stretcher to Everton fans following injury
Neville Southall getting 'sick and tired' hearing same thing about Everton all season
- Damning £3m truth has further exposed Everton problems under Farhad Moshir
