Everton's Steven Naismith waiting for his opportunity after dropping to bench

Steven Naismith has claimed that he will continue to work hard in the hope of snatching back his starting spot in the Everton team.

The Scotsman started both Premier League games against Watford and Southampton on the bench, and made late appearances as a substitute.

While the 28-year-old has insisted that he will speak up if he feels he is being harshly treated, the attacker is aware that he needs to fight for his place.

"I was disappointed not to start in the game against Watford but then you look at the boys who scored and done well and accept that and bide your time," the Liverpool Echo quotes Naismith as saying.

"No player doesn't want to be playing but you have got to appreciate that there will be times when you think you have a case that you should be playing and whether you just need to wait it out. It's down to me to work hard and wait for the opportunity to come."

Naismith joined the Merseyside outfit from Rangers in 2012.