The Spaniard says his season hampered by fitness injuries and Roberto Martinez’s seeming reluctance to utilise him.

Everton star Gerard Deulofeu has admitted his excitement as he looks ahead to putting his injury troubles behind him and improving next season, as quoted by the Liverpool Echo.

Deulofeu made 33 appearances in all competitions for the Toffees in his first season as a permanent player at Goodison Park, showing occasional flashes of the promise which persuaded the club to bring him back following a successful loan spell.

However, the 22-year-old’s season was hampered by injury, with the midfielder managing just two appearances between the end of January and the start of April.

His campaign was then cut short just weeks after his return by an injury sustained in training after the FA Cup semi-final defeat to Manchester Unied on 23 April, and he missed the final weeks of the season.

The Spain under-21s international admitted that he is desperate to put that frustration behind him this summer and kick on next season.

Deulofeu said, as quoted by the Echo: “I played 20 minutes at Wembley very well, and I wanted to play the last three or four games better and it was unlucky. Now it’s time for me to think about next season. I hope next season is much better than this one.

“I worked hard two weeks before May 15 when the season finished. But Everton have given me a plan for my summer and I will do the plan. I’m a professional. I’m so excited for the start of pre-season. I hope next year is much better and Everton stay near the top of the league.”

Though he would be unlikely to admit it, the Spaniard also may be glad to see back of Martinez, who was curiously hesitant to give the talented star an extended run in the team.

Deulofeu will be hoping that he can make an early impression on the manager’s replacement in pre-season and establish himself as a key starter for the Merseyside club next term.

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