Everton star midfielder Abdoulaye Doucoure believes the current squad knows the importance of the club.

The all-action superstar saved the Toffees' skin last season, scoring on the final day to ensure Premier League survival.

After a ten point deduction, the Toffees are back in a dogfight to avoid the drop this term.

“In terms of atmosphere and the group, it is definitely one of the best feelings I've been involved in during my career," Doucoure told the club's matchday programme when asked about the mood in the squad.

“I am very happy to be here, of course. It feels like everyone is very happy to be here and understands the importance of playing for Everton and the responsibility that comes with it. That is very, very important.

“When the manager came in, he sat everyone down and explained what he wants and an important part of that is having everyone together, pulling in the same direction.

“That was particularly important at the time he came in because it was a difficult moment, but we have built on that over pre-season, which was very good, and the early part of this season.

“It feels like a real team. Everyone is together, anyone can speak up when they need to. It all helps. It's a healthy environment.

“The players who joined over the summer have helped that, too. They've given us a good mix, added to our fight and they also know what it means to play for Everton.

“The mindset has been different since the end of last season. We came back from the summer very strong, ready to work and like the manager says, 'No excuses'. These were the most important things, in my opinion.

“The manager doesn't speak for the sake of it. If he has something to say, then he'll say it but otherwise we get on through actions. I prefer that. I prefer to do with actions rather than words. It's more meaningful. Once it's explained, we have what we need, then it's up to us to go and do it."