Everton defender Michael Keane credits manager Sam Allardyce for his form revival.

Keane struggled to live up to his £25million fee as Everton's form collapsed in the first half of the season and he admits it was tough dealing with the first major setback in his career.

The former Burnley centre-half is returning to his best under Allardyce and says the Blues boss has helped him understand his role better.

“I felt comfortable at Everton straight away," said Keane. “I settled in nicely, but then things did not go well for the team for a few months.

“It was a tough period for everyone and I was part of that. Hopefully I'm coming out of that now and I feel I have been doing consistently well over the past month or so.

“Those tough experiences can only make you stronger and more determined not to go through the same thing again.

“I've been a lot more settled since the manager came in and I know what my role is in the team.

“You want to be clear-minded and understand your role and responsibilities going into a game. That's how it is with the manager here."