Anthony Gordon says his electric performance in Everton’s 3-0 Carabao Cup victory over Salford City on Wednesday night is reflective of his growing maturity as a player and a person.

The Academy graduate was in scintillating form in the Blues’ first Goodison Park contest of the season, with his searing pace, skilful dribbling and intelligent movement catching the eye throughout.

He came agonisingly close to netting his first Everton goal, twice striking the woodwork in the second half.

Gordon fired in eight shots – the most efforts a Toffees player has had during a game in more than three years.

The 19-year-old also provided an assist for Gylfi Sigurdsson’s 74th-minute strike and won a penalty in the game’s closing stages, which was emphatically converted by Moise Kean.

“I’m becoming more mature as a player,” Gordon told evertontv.

“I’m growing up as a person, too. That then all comes together in the games and I think it’s showing at the minute.

“Against Salford, I thought I played well but I didn’t score – it just wouldn’t go in.

“I’m desperate to score my first goal and I had a few shots and a few chances. Hopefully I can improve on that and get that goal.

“I like to create for others, as well, and help my teammates out. It’s a different kind of feeling and joy [providing an assist], and I was happy to do that for Gylfi.

“If I can keep doing well, hopefully I can push on and play a lot this season.”

Gordon linked up impressively with Everton debutant Niels Nkounkou during the clash with Salford, the pair posing a constant attacking threat down the Blues’ left flank.

Nkounkou was the first of four signings made by Everton during the summer transfer window, with boss Carlo Ancelotti subsequently strengthening his squad with the additions of Allan, James Rodriguez and Abdoulaye Doucoure.

Gordon is convinced the depth of quality within the Everton squad and strong competition for places will improve him as a footballer.

“We played an amazing game against Spurs [Everton’s 1-0 win on the opening day of the Premier League season], without anyone having a mediocre game,” he said.

“The players were all brilliant.

“Against Salford, it was about me showing what I can do on this stage and hopefully I did enough.

“For me, the more competition, the better, because I will only thrive off that and it will push me.

“The new lads have played at the highest level and with the best players.

“Just being around them, I will learn so much.”

Gordon added the new signings’ warmth and positivity means he would have no hesitation in asking them for tips or guidance.

“If I needed any advice, they are brilliant guys, and definitely would help me out,” he said.

“You could see towards the end of the Salford match, a few of them were shouting at me from the sidelines to get at the right-back.

“They are great guys and have fitted right in.”