Demarai Gray has vowed to continue working on the 'small details that make big differences' after scoring his first goal for Everton.
The Blues completed the signing of Gray from Bayer Leverkusen on a three-year deal last week, and he immediately linked up with his new teammates in the US.
Gray went on to make a decisive contribution in his first appearance for his new club as the Blues claimed the Florida Cup after beating Millonarios on penalties.
Having replaced James Rodriguez at the break in Orlando, the former Leicester City man drew his side level from the penalty spot after Andres Llinas had opened the scoring in the first half.
The 25-year-old then scored again in the shootout before Asmir Begovic scored and then saved from opposite number Juan Moreno to hand his side a 10-9 victory.
“I fancied it [penalty in regulation time], I thought it would be a good way to get off the mark in my first game,” Gray told evertontv after the game.
“I am feeling confident… and as I pick up fitness, hopefully, I can take that into the new season. I felt good, I felt sharp, I was happy to score the penalty and for the team to win the shootout. It is positive.
“I have settled well and felt I trained well in my first few days. I took that into the game today, I was positive on the ball and made sure my touches were good.
“Most importantly, [the game was valuable] for the legs and all round it’s a positive day. The season is fast approaching, so I needed that. The team did as well. Conditions are tough and it will help us get fitter.”
Rafa Benitez’s side are back at the Camping World Stadium to face Mexican side Pumas on Wednesday and Gray is hoping for more of the same.
He said: “I felt the same [as when taking the first]. I was confident. You know, pick a corner and go with it. And I did that.
“It [working with Benitez] has been very good, just in terms of detail. I think, for me, it's the final details that need working on and they are the most important things.
“Small details that make big differences. I'm happy with the first week and I'm excited to keep working with him [Benitez] and the boys.
“It was positive all round for the new boys. We've got another game on Wednesday and hopefully we can keep up the same form and get the fitness up.”
Do you want an exclusive pre-season Everton preview - both in your inbox and through your letterbox? Head over here to find out more and secure your copy.
