AIDEN McGeady has put his recent run of good form down to manager Roberto Martinez’s advice to play with more freedom.
Speaking on the club’s official website, the former Celtic winger, who has been in goal scoring form for both club and country, scoring a vital last ditch effort for Ireland against Georgia, claims to feel more settled at Goodison Park.
Noting that he found it hard to establish himself at the club without game time last season, McGeady said: "Last season I was coming on and getting five, 10, 15 minutes here and there. This season I have felt more settled and part of the team. The more comfortable you become with your surroundings, the more you will play with freedom."
Beyond game time, McGeady pointed out that the managing and coaching staff at Everton have been crucial in aiding his confidence and subsequent form.
“They [the managing and coaching staff] have given me pointers here and there about expressing myself and that’s what I’ve tried to do when I’ve been on the pitch,” he said.
"There were times last season when I was probably more concerned about not giving the ball away rather than taking a chance and doing what I was supposed to do.
"They have been very vocal and positive with me about that – they have been saying it doesn’t matter how many times I give the ball away, if I create a chance and we score from it then that’s the main thing.
“It’s about being more expressive and positive with my play."
