Dominic Calvert-Lewin says Everton’s 2-1 victory over Leeds United was the result of a collective and determined effort from a Blues side hungry to reignite their push for European qualification.

The scorer also explained how boss Carlo Ancelotti's positive influence helped him get back on the goal trail.

First-half strikes from Calvert-Lewin and Gylfi Sigurdsson ultimately settled a pulsating game at Elland Road.

Raphinha halved the deficit early in the second half for the home side and – while Leeds had spells of sustained pressure as they hunted an equaliser – Everton defended with bravery and resilience to secure maximum points.

Everton have now won four top-flight away games on the spin for the first time since 1985.

The victory lifts Everton up to sixth in the Premier League table – four points behind fourth-placed Liverpool but with two games in hand on Jurgen Klopp’s team.

“It was a massive three points for us,” said Calvert-Lewin.

“We want to stay well up there and compete for the top four. After the last game [a 2-0 defeat to Newcastle United], we wanted to put it right. 

“It was important we put in a good performance and that led to the three points tonight. 

“We knew they play so high tempo and it’s different to what you play against most weeks.

"We had to match them man for man, win our individual battles, and the rest takes care of itself.

“It is tough. It’s a grind at times but that’s why it takes the full team to commit fully to what you’re trying to do.

“The manager demands high standards. We’ll be looking forward to Saturday [against Manchester United] and continuing the momentum.”

Everton opened the scoring early in the piece with a superb team move. Andre Gomes’ lofted pass set Lucas Digne clear down the left - the Frenchman delivered a typically inviting cross for the advancing Sigurdsson to slot in.

Calvert-Lewin doubled the Toffees’ lead on 41 minutes when he headed in at the back post after Sigurdsson’s corner was flicked on.

It was his 12th in the Premier League this season but his first in the division since the Blues’ 1-1 draw with Burnley on 5 December.

Calvert-Lewin explained the importance of continuing to put himself in goalscoring positions – and outlined how manager Ancelotti has ensured his confidence has remained high.

He said: “The ball hadn’t quite been dropping for me in these past few games but I never stopped believing one is going to come – it’s down to me to stay on the move in that six-yard box and I was there tonight to put it in.

“I’ve scored a few like that. 

“It’s just banking on someone getting a flick at the front post and me being in the right position at the right time.

“I can go seven games getting in that position and it might not come, but I have to make sure I’m there when it does.

“It’s important to continue the belief I have in myself, and the manager and coaching staff have matched that. 

“It’s worked wonders for me and gave me the confidence to keep going and believing.”