Everton head into the international break in sixth place after a superb run of results, and one player in particular has caught Glenn Hoddle’s eye.

David Moyes’ side came from behind to beat Coventry City 3-1 on Friday night, making it three wins in eight days, after the double over Newcastle.

Glenn Hoddle sees shades of Didier Drogba in Thierno Barry

Thierno Barry scored twice and provided an assist against Coventry, taking him to 10 goals and three assists in 13 games in all competitions this season.

Speaking on Premier League Productions’ Generation xG, Hoddle compared the Frenchman’s rise to Drogba’s early days in England.

“When Drogba came to this country, his touch wasn’t good. It was raw. You could see some potential,” he said. “Not saying he’s going to end up like Didier. But I just see some, you know, it was similar the way Drogba was raw… Couldn’t score, then started to score goals. You see a different player, and that’s what you’re seeing now. It’s confidence again.”

It’s quite the comparison, but perhaps it’s not as outlandish as it initially sounds. Drogba joined Chelsea for £24million in 2004, aged 26, and scored 10 Premier League goals in his first season, 16 in all competitions.

Drogba went on to score over 100 Premier League goals for the Blues. Barry, at 24, already has 10 goals this season.

Thierno Barry has simplified his game for Everton

What stood out most against Coventry wasn’t just the goals, though. It was everything else. Barry held the ball up brilliantly, protected it under pressure and brought others into play. He’s simplified his game, and we’re finally seeing a top striker.

Last season, even after scoring, he’d try four step-overs and something outrageous. Now, he keeps it simple, and it works. If he wins his first header or gets his first lay-off right, he’s a completely different player for the rest of the night.

There’s a mental side to it too. Last season, one missed chance and he’d often be hooked. Now, without Beto there, it’s all on Barry, and he seems to love that responsibility. He knows if he misses one, another chance will come.

You can see the extra work on the training ground is paying off, too. He’s stronger, he’s sharper on the ball, and Everton have got better at getting it to him, whether that’s into feet or in the air, with players like Dewsbury-Hall, Tyrique George and Harrison Armstrong arriving in support.

Is he the next Drogba? That’s a big ask. But if Barry keeps improving at this rate, Everton have a proper No.9 on their hands.