Barry's Five Goals Lift Everton as Striker Wins Over Fans

Thierno Barry has scored five goals this season, including the winner against Ipswich, after managing eight in 41 games a year ago.

Everton striker Thierno Barry has emerged as an early-season standout, taking his tally to five goals with the decisive strike against Ipswich. The 23-year-old scored eight times in 41 appearances last season, making his current scoring rate a clear step forward.

BBC Sport Merseyside commentator Chris Coughlan was not named in this space, but BBC Sport Merseyside's Chris Coughlin, speaking on the Toffees Unwrapped program, said Barry has become more aware inside the penalty area and praised a positive start to the campaign. Coughlin noted there is still room to grow, pointing to hold-up play as an area that frustrates him.

Coughlin added that Barry's improvised finish on Saturday and the three points it delivered can help him earn back the trust of Everton supporters. He also said carrying the number nine shirt at a young age carries significant pressure, and that fans now seem less frustrated when chances go missing.