Arouna Kone’s scintillating display in yesterday’s 6-2 victory has earned the Ivory Coast international a new contract. Kone’s curent contract was to expire at the end of this season but the Ivorian’s heroics yesterday triggered an extension clause in his contract.
Roberto Martinez was full of praise for Kone’s performance yesterday. The Spanish manager was impressed by the Ivory Coast international’s desire to overcome injury and his dedication to becoming a starting player for Everton FC.
The former Levante forward was Roberto Martinez’s first signing as Everton boss, when he brought him over from his former club, Wigan Athletic, for a fee of £6million.
A horrible knee injury disrupted his start to life at Goodison Park, he was out for the rest of the 2013/14 season and only scored once in his second season on Merseyside, but with 5 goals and 3 assists in 11 league outings this season, the former Nice striker has truly come to life.
The 31-year-old has been employed primarily on the wing for Everton this campaign, and his strength, technical ability and footballing brain have all been evident so far.
Arouna has always had self belief. It’s been as difficult as you are going to get – a new player coming to a new club, then having a career threatening injury. From that point he was catching up but his attitude and focus never changed. He never chose to blame anyone or anything – all he wanted was an opportunity.
The Everton boss was also quick to remind everyone of Kone’s form so far this year – with the Ivorian being one of Everton’s most inform attacking threats thus far this year.
‘Against Watford, in difficult circumstances, it was a real turning point for his individual role. From that point on he has been very impressive throughout the season and today was the most impressive complete 90 minutes. Scoring a hat-trick and his overall contribution was strong.’ Roberto Martinez.
Well in, Arouna.
