The Brazil international joined the Premier League outfit last summer.
Everton winger Bernard has spoken of his time at Goodison Park so far and, when discussing his belated full Premier League debut, made an honest admission about his form.
The Brazilian has started the Toffees’ past six matches, with his first top-flight goal coming in last month’s 2-0 win at West Ham United, and also impressed in the 1-0 triumph over Arsenal.
Bernard was out of contract after leaving Ukrainian club Shakhtar Donetsk in June and was snapped up by Everton last August (BBC Sport), but a pre-existing shoulder injury put his full top-flight debut on hold until October.
Even though he did not have a pre-season and was out for more than five months with the injury, Bernard admits he would have still needed some time to get used to the rigours of the Premier League.
However, the 26-year-old stresses he is currently in the midst of his “best moment” of form since arriving on Merseyside last summer as he continues to adapt and improve – as has the whole team.
“Now I am feeling this is my best moment in the Premier League,” Bernard told the Everton website. “It is my first season in this country and I feel very good with Everton and in English football. Even with a pre-season, I would have needed some time to get used to the Premier League.
“I have been adapting and understanding how English football works. This is the most competitive championship in the world and where every player wants to be.“I knew I needed time and I have kept working. I know my potential and what I can do.”
Bernard has made 30 Premier League appearances so far this season, scoring once and registering four assists, according to Transfermarkt.
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