Everton attacker Nikola Vlasic has insisted that he will improve following a difficult first year at Goodison Park.

The 20-year-old, who joined the Toffees from Hajduk Split last summer, has failed to score or register an assist in his 12 Premier League appearances during the 2017-18 campaign.

Vlasic, however, has said that "better days are coming" as the attacker vows to make an impression next season.

"I hope next season will be my season. If you are not in the team, it is up to you to work hard and wait for your chance," Vlasic told reporters.

"Of course you expect that competition for places. With so many good players, you need to fight for your position. I expected that and I knew it would be hard. But I think better days are coming for me.

"I was always training hard, waiting for my chance. When I played before I thought I played well and I think I have adapted well enough to English football. Of course I can be better but this is my first season here and it was always going to be hard coming into the Premier League. But I hope next season will be my season."

Vlasic played 58 minutes of Everton's 1-1 draw with Southampton in the Premier League at the weekend.