Leon Osman is well aware just how important a solid pre-season is for Everton's Premier League hopes.
The Toffees are currently in Singapore for the Barclays Asia Trophy and after edging Stoke City on penalties on Wednesday night, the veteran midfielder is keen to get more out of the offseason fixtures in order to give the team the best preparation possible.
Osman admits the clash with the Potters in Singapore was gruelling due to the conditions but knows it will be of great benefit for Roberto Matinez's men.
"It was tough," he told the Liverpool Echo.
"We knew coming here that conditions were going to be completely different to what we expect at home.
"So it was a test for us to adapt to that in pre-season and makes it tougher which makes you get less time but you still get a good workout."
Of his own fitness, 34-year-old Osman added: "I have to come back early every pre-season.
"Sometimes it helps, sometimes it doesn't but I've tried my best to keep myself in good condition from end of last season and keep on top of things.
"I'm just trying to be ready and play when the manager needs me.
"We are trying to build our fitness up to peak conditions and, so far, we are doing that."