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Everton midfielder Andre Gomes: Barcelona experience made me a man

Everton midfielder Andre Gomes says he's a stronger character for his experience with parent club Barcelona.

Gomes has shown his qualities since returning from a hamstring injury sustained while on pre-season with parent club Barcelona, and the 25-year-old isn't placing a ceiling on what can be achieved at Goodison Park this campaign.

"I feel more like a man now," he told Sky Sports when reflecting on his two seasons at Barcelona. "Now I feel mature and experienced. I'm really happy to be in the Premier League and England.

"My father was, and is still, the big influence on me. Sometimes it is difficult for him because he suffers a lot when I am not happy or good.

"[At Barca] It was tough for me because I wasn't feeling good. I had good moments, but in the bad moments it was difficult because I saw my father and mum suffering.

"It was really difficult for me to take care of expectations, not only from the fans, but my expectations and seeing my parents suffering. It was complicated. I'm enjoying football again.

"I can't say I'm playing my best football, because I don't want to put pressure or walls [on my potential]. I just want to get better physically, to give the best performances that I can."

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