Everton striker Victor Anichebe believes that he 'needs' to begin starting games for the Toffees this season in order to improve as a player.
The Nigeria international netted his first goal in Everton's preparations during a friendly 4-1 win over Morecambe a fortnight ago.
"I think next season I need to be cementing my place," Anichebe told the Liverpool Echo. "I think I need to be starting games. Maybe if it was not for my injuries I would already be starting games, but that's in the past now.
"I'm 24 now and it's the time you're supposed to be maturing into whatever position or kind of player you are. Hopefully I can start more games and my injuries are behind me. I pray to God I can."
Anichebe has come through the ranks at Goodison Park.