Thierno Barry: Everton striker challenged to keep scoring after first goal in win over Forest

Barry was brought in by Moyes in the summer from Villarreal, replacing the departed Dominic Calvert-Lewin.

His record in Spain’s top flight had been decent with 11 goals from 35 games, but the transition to the Premier League has proven difficult.

Prior to the Forest game he had managed just one shot on target in 16 games – the sort of record that would generally have fans questioning the wisdom of such a player leading their line.

However, Barry is popular among Everton fans for his other contributions, such as his work rate and ability to win headers, the only thing that was missing was goals.

Until now.

His finish, taken in such a composed manner that you could have been fooled into thinking it was his 15th of the season, seemed to be celebrated that bit more loudly than normal among the home supporters. They no doubt shared Barry’s sense of elation and relief.

The goal came from the 19th shot he has attempted for Everton and was his first strike since netting for Villarreal against Osasuna in La Liga in May.

The 23-year-old also went off to a big standing ovation when he was replaced by Beto – another player who has been struggling for goals – in the second half.

But while Barry’s all-round play is appreciated by fans, a striker is ultimately judged on goals. The longer his barren run went on, the more the pressure had increased on him.

“It’s huge for him, and it was coming – it was certainly due,” Moyes told BBC Match of the Day.

“He’s got to score, when you’re playing centre-forward, otherwise we will find someone to replace him.”