Anthony Gordon believes his growing maturity as a footballer – coupled with a determined effort to improve his stamina – is providing a platform for his impressive Everton displays.

Gordon completed the full 90 minutes in a Premier League match for the first time in Sunday’s breathless 0-0 draw with Tottenham Hotspur at Goodison Park.

The 20-year-old’s consistent dynamism and thrust was a key component of a high-octane Everton performance. Gordon explained how being able to sustain his energy levels for entirety of a fiercely-competitive top-flight contest represented a significant milestone in his burgeoning career.

“It was a very big mark for me to overcome [playing 90 minutes] and I felt really good doing it,” the Academy graduate told evertonfc.com. 

“It’s a building block. I’ve been working hard every day, running a lot and building my stamina. It’s paying off. 

“As the manager has said, I’m really explosive off the mark. I’m a quick player, so it’s about finding the right balance [with endurance work]. 

“I just want to keep building on my stamina and keep improving.” 

Gordon, who has made nine First-Team appearances this season, highlighted the influence of manager Rafa Benitez and says they have quickly formed a strong connection.

“We have got a really good relationship,” Gordon explained.

“Any improvements that need to be made, he’s letting me know and I’m trying my best. 

“Everything about my game has improved since last year. I think that comes with maturing as a player and a person and getting more experience.”

Gordon says he savoured every moment of performing in front of a rocking Goodison crowd against Spurs.

He believes the urgency and intensity of Everton’s football throughout the contest offers a blueprint for how the team must continue to approach matches.

“We were on the front foot and really aggressive, and I think that’s what we need to do,” Gordon added.

“You see how the fans reacted. They were so loud and they pushed us on. That comes from up being on the front foot.

“It’s unreal playing at Goodison when it’s like that. The sound…I can’t explain it because it’s so loud. Your whole body just rushes with adrenaline.

“As a team, we’ve proved that’s how we should play. It works for us and, personally, I think I’ve proved I can do the ugly side of the game, too.”

Gordon has seen his fine Everton form recognised with a maiden call-up for the England Under-21 squad.

The young Lions – who are managed by former Everton midfielder Lee Carsley – will host Czech Republic in a European Championship qualifier on Thursday at Burnley’s Turf Moor Stadium, before travelling to Georgia for a friendly game on Tuesday 16 November.

“I set myself a goal this year to get the call-up,” revealed Gordon, who has been capped at Under-18, Under-19 and Under-20 level.

“I found out two days before they announced it and the manager, Lee Carsley, called me the night before and said, ‘Congratulations, it’s well deserved’.

“I want to win both games and to play as much as possible. If I can start a game for England Under-21s, that would be a big achievement for me.”