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MAROUANE FELLAINI’S attacking instinct could see him become Everton FC’s long-term successor to Tim Cahill, says David Moyes.

The Belgian international has mostly been played in a holding defensive role for Everton, but was deployed further forward towards the end of the season to impressive effect.

It meant the 24-year-old formed a dangerous attacking partnership with Nikica Jelavic, and Moyes says it bodes well for the future.

He said: “Marouane is probably seen as more of a defensive midfield player. But he’s far better when he’s joining in and getting forward because he can do a bit of everything.

“He plays for Belgium as one of a three-man midfield. For us, we’ve tended to play with two midfield players and one ahead – in the main, that has been Tim

“But I’ve always known that Marouane can do that job. We had just been looking at the right time to do that.”

The thrilling 4-4 draw with Manchester United at Old Trafford showcased exactly what a handful the former Standard Liège man can be

His volley and pinpoint assist for Steven Pienaar’s late equaliser may have stood out, but his manager was quick to praise Fellaini’s overall display in the advanced role.

“Marouane’s performance against Manchester United was excellent,” he said. “But I thought he has been in near enough all games.

“He’s been needing to add a goal or two to his game because when he first came he got 10, I think.

“He just needs to add a little bit more and his goal against United, his all-round play, even his setting up for the fourth goal for Steven would have given him a lot of confidence.

“It’s difficult to put him into any one box. He’s got a goal in him, he does get forward and causes problems, but he’s also very good at breaking the game up and doing other things. He’s quite good at both jobs.”

Moyes also lauded the overall development of the £15m man since his deadline day move to Goodison in August 2008.

“You can see Marouane’s enjoyed his football much more in the last three or four months,” added the Everton boss. He added: “Young players mature. The decisions you make as a young player are sometimes different than when you get a bit older.

“His form has been good. He’s been getting us a couple of goals in recent games, and long may that continue.”