Romelu Lukaku claims Everton's draw with Liverpool is the 'best derby' he has played in
Romelu Lukaku claims Everton's draw with Liverpool is the 'best derby' he has played in - and has praised Ross Barkley.
Last Updated: 26/11/13 12:31pm
The on-loan Chelsea striker scored a brace in Saturday's thrilling 3-3 draw at Goodison Park, where Daniel Sturridge netted a late equaliser for Brendan Rodgers' visitors.
That took the Belgian's goal haul to seven goals in eight Premier League appearances for the Toffees - and he admits he revelled in the big-match experience.
"I think at club level, in the league, it's the best experience I've ever had to play in such a derby," Lukaku, who played in Midlands derbies during his loan spell with West Brom last season, told the Liverpool Echo.
"Two great sets of fans, two great clubs with really great history - and to score at such a young age is a really great thing.
"I think you can see every time I put the shirt on I try to give my best for the club.
"When I had the opportunity to come here they were the club who showed the most interest in me and from the first time I played here at Goodison it was a great experience.
"Week in, week out I try to give my best for the team and for my team-mates and I am doing very well right now and I want to continue like that."
Lukaku caught the eye with his deadly double, but Barkley also earned some post-match plaudits after putting on a fine display himself.
Barkley is "England's next big thing" according to 20-year-old Lukaku, who says he loves playing alongside the 19-year-old.
"He's very good," added Lukaku. "I played against Ross something like seven years ago at a youth tournament and we could already see he had the potential to play in the Premier League.
"Year in, year out he has kept improving and it's a great pleasure to have him behind me.
"He can deliver such quality balls, he can score, he can dribble. I think he's England's next big thing."
