Nigerian international Victor Chinedu Anichebe has said that he is keen to make the most of his limited first-team chances by learning his trade from team-mates Nikica Jelavic and summer arrival Kevin Mirallas.

The 24-year-old was almost the hero against Newcastle after replacing the injured Jelavic, scoring one goal and being denied another despite the ball crossing the line from his header.

His 88th-minute strike looked to have clinched the Toffees’ third win in four league matches, only for Demba Ba’s second of the night to secure a 2-2 draw for the Magpies at Goodison Park.

''I am always happy just to be on the pitch as I’ve had some injuries in my time.  It is nice for me to learn off Nikica as he plays the lone striker role and he’s a great player.

''He plays between the centre-halves and that’s what I’m trying to do more instead of dropping off.  Kevin had some good cameo runs and he is one of those players who always wants to do something on the ball. It is always nice to play and watch these kind of players, as I am still learning. 

''I’ve been working on that kind of turn and shot [for his goal] so I was happy with that – but I’d have been happier with a win,'' Anichebe was quoted as saying by metro.co.uk.

Anichebe was philosophical about not being awarded a goal when his header bounced down off the underside of the crossbar and over the line but failed to be spotted by officials.

''Sometimes these things go against you but hopefully as the season goes on we’ll get some luck,'' Anichebe added.

Photo Credit: ligafutbol.com

Johnny Ogbah
UK Correspondent