LEON OSMAN believes he is close to recapturing the form that prompted talk of an England call-up near the end of last season.
The Everton midfielder has been deployed in his favoured central role since the departure of Mikel Arteta at the start of last month, and Osman is relishing the increased responsibility of being the side’s main creative outlet.
Now the 30-year-old, who was suggested as a candidate for international recognition last term, wants to build on that form as the Blues face a tough run of fixtures against Chelsea, Fulham and Manchester United.
He said: “I was playing a similar role at the back end of last season and I have found it comfortable to get back up and going again so I am looking to carry that on and help the team pick up a few results.
“I have found myself playing a bit more centrally which has been good for me and hopefully I can continue to do so. The more I can get on the ball the better but I am sure any footballer will tell you they want to be on the ball and I like to get on it and make things happen.”
Asked if Arteta’s transfer to Arsenal had left him with added responsibilities, he said: “Most probably, yes. It is a loss that Mikel moved on but we are not going to mope about it. We have got a good squad in place here and good players so we are looking forward.”
Osman’s form towards the end of last term led David Moyes to field questions about whether his man deserved recognition from Fabio Capello, and chairman Bill Kenwright presented him with a special trophy at the End of Season Awards.
But Osman said: “It is nice for people to say that, but as long as the team is getting results then I am happy.”
Meanwhile, Everton assistant boss Steve Round believes Jose Baxter will benefit from his stint on loan with Tranmere Rovers.
The 19-year-old scored on his Rovers debut, and has already impressed Prenton Park boss Les Parry with his ability.
Round said: “You learn and develop in the academy before taking that next step in the reserve team.
“But then really, to get in where it really matters, to play competitive football and get the experience where winning and losing really matters, playing in front of crowds and against competitive opposition against men who are older and more physically developed, it’s great experience for them, it really is.
“For any young player a loan spell, as you’ve seen with players in the past - David Beckham or whoever it may be - it always does them good and helps them become a first team player.
“It gives them the little bit of experience at a little less intensity and little less quality arena, but nevertheless puts them in good stead for your first team. I think it’s a really good thing for young players to go out and get some loan football.
“The reports coming back are very good. He’s done well and we’re very pleased with him. The more games he can get in this short space of time the better.”
