What The Papers Say - July 5

The views on this page are taken from the local and national media and do not necessarily reflect the views of Everton.

Andre Gomes features in Friday’s local and national newspapers, with the Everton midfielder revealing his determination to raise his performance levels even further following an impressive debut campaign with the Blues.

The Portugal international last week completed a £22million transfer from Barcelona, having shone during a loan spell at Goodison Park in 2018-19.

“Fans now know me, the Club knows me, the manager is expecting me to do the same things but to keep improving,” he said. “The mindset for me is to keep improving and do better.”

Turkish media outlet Fanatik continues to link Everton with a move for Senegalese midfielder Badou Ndiaye.

The 28-year-old spent last season on loan at Galatasaray from Stoke City.

The Liverpool Echo carries quotes from former Blues favourite Steven Pienaar, who is in Kenya ahead of the Toffees’ pre-season friendly match against Kariobangi Sharks on Sunday.

Pienaar revealed his excitement about the potential of Everton winger Ademola Lookman and explained why he believes ex-teammate Leighton Baines still has a lot to offer.

“Lookman is still young and raw but I can see a lot of good signs in him," said Pienaar. "His talent is there, he just needs the finishing touches and hopefully this will be his season to break through."

The South African added: “Bainsey is one of the best players I've played with. It’s great news [that he has signed a new one-year contract}. He can play until he is 40.

“He knows the Club in and out, he is part of the family and any new players coming in, he's the one to go to if you need to talk.”

The Echo also reports that former skipper Phil Jagielka will not have to wait long to return to Goodison after he signed for newly-promoted Sheffield United on Thursday.

The Blades will take on Everton in L4 on Saturday 21 September.

Jagielka made 385 appearances for Everton after leaving Bramall Lane to join the Blues in 2007.