Kenny On Salford Test And Everton's 'Perfect' Team Spirit

Jonjoe Kenny says the team spirit within the Everton squad is “as good as I’ve ever known”, as he revealed the Blues’ deep resolve to embark on a successful Carabao Cup run.

Everton launch their cup campaign against Salford City at Goodison Park on Wednesday night (8.15pm).

The game could see Toffees new-boys Allan, James Rodriguez and Abdoulaye Doucoure make their home debuts, having each delivered eye-catching performances in Sunday’s 1-0 victory at Tottenham Hotspur.

Salford have enjoyed a rapid rise through the divisions in recent years and last season competed in the Football League for the first time, finishing 11th in League Two.

Kenny says Everton are primed for a stern examination against Graham Alexander’s side and outlined the importance of the Blues being “switched on” from the first whistle.

“Salford are a good team and it’s going to be a difficult game,” the right-back told evertonfc.com.

“We know what Salford are good at. It’s about us being as professional as possible and making sure we stay on top of our game.

“It’s a cup we want to go out to try to win. That’s what dreams are made of. As a young lad, that’s what you want to do.

“To bring a trophy back to Goodison, for the whole team, the staff and the fans, it would be massive.

“It’s what Everton is striving for and you can see by the signings we’ve made the way the Club is going.”


Kenny says Everton will head into Wednesday’s match brimming with confidence following Sunday’s win at Tottenham.

He outlined how the Blues’ new additions have further enhanced the positive, ambitious atmosphere at the Club.

“I thought we were outstanding against Spurs,” said the Academy graduate.

“I think the new signings looked very comfortable, especially with James and Allan playing their first Premier League game.

“I thought they were brilliant, and I thought the whole team was [brilliant] defensively.

“We had that confidence on the ball to go and get more goals, too. I think we could have had a couple more.

“Of course, it’s only the first game, and we don’t want to get carried away, but it was a really good start.

“The atmosphere in the squad is one of the best I’ve been a part of.

“It’s perfect. We have got a good mix.

“We have the foreign lads and they bring a lot of banter and laughter to the team.

“You see with top teams, they have that family environment. That’s what we want and we’ve got that togetherness.”


Kenny is back at Everton having enjoyed an impressive loan spell at Schalke 04 last season.

He played 34 matches for the Bundesliga side, with his accomplished displays earning glowing praise in Germany.

The 23-year-old is hoping to make his first competitive Everton appearance of the campaign against Salford and explained his mindset heading into the match.

“Of course, it’s up to the manager whoever plays, but I always prepare for games the same way,” he said.

“It doesn’t matter if it’s a friendly or a competitive game, I need to go out there and perform.

“You have always got to give your best because if you don’t, you’ll come unstuck.

"For me, right from the off, it’s about being focused and doing what I'm good at.”