Everton striker Arouna Kone has admitted that he may not be able to find his best form until the start of next season.
A serious knee injury kept the Ivorian out of action for over a year following his move from Wigan Athletic in 2013, but Kone admits that he is starting to feel more comfortable after starting the last two Premier League games.
However, the striker has appealed for patience as he continues his bid to be a success under Roberto Martinez at Goodison Park.
"I do feel better in myself and my knee is a lot better," Kone told the Liverpool Echo.
"I wouldn't say I'm absolutely 100% yet but every time I play I get better and better each time, and that's the aim now, finishing the season as strong as I can, get confident and try to get back to top form before the end of this season and then kick on with a good pre-season.
"I want to be on top form right from the off next season."
Kone is expected to recover from knocks to his knee and ankle to play against Southampton on Saturday.
Callum Mulvihill
