The defender has suffered a torrid close season after his brother was held captive for 12 days back home in Nigeria.

"I thank God all our prayers have been answered and my brother is back safely," he told the Daily Mirror.

"Everyone at Everton has helped me stay strong. The chairman was in touch on day one and gave me a lot of support.

"The fans have also been concerned for my brother and for me and my family and I thank them.

"I love them all and the only way I can repay them is to do what I know best and that's to play football to the best of my ability.

"I'm more determined than ever to do my best and to help the team do even better than we did last year.

"Nobody needs to worry about my fitness because I will be ready for the start of the season."