West Ham United striker Enner Valencia has stated that he wants to play in a striker’s role while on loan at Everton this season.
The Ecuador international was one of the casualties of a progressive summer in the transfer market by the Hammers, which saw Jonathan Calleri, Andre Ayew and Simone Zaza added to Slaven Bilic’s options in the final third.
Valencia was not guaranteed first-team football if he stayed at the London Stadium and opted to move to Goodison Park on a season-long basis for 2016-17.
The South American attacker has stated that playing on the flanks never suited him at West Ham and he has admitted that operating as a centre forward this term for the Toffees would be preferable.
“I had some options, but when I heard about Everton and saw the quality of the players, nobody will say not to come here,” he told the Merseyside club’s official website.
“It’s a great opportunity to be here with great team mates and have a great year in the Premier League.
“I was very very happy with the news. My manager was talking with other teams but I thought Everton was the best option … it was a great deal for me.
“My best position is striker.
“Last year at West Ham I played as a I winger and it was difficult for me, because it’s not the position I fill well.”
Just how much football Valencia receives with Ronald Koeman’s men remains to be seen, with powerhouse centre forward Romelu Lukaku guaranteed a place in the starting XI when available.
