Ben Godfrey is savouring the opportunity to return to the United States with an Everton squad he says “is a pleasure to be part of” – as he revealed why new signing James Tarkowski’s personality and quality will make him a valuable addition.

Godfrey took part in training game with his Toffees teammates at Finch Farm on Saturday as Everton stepped up their pre-season programme.

Frank Lampard and his team will travel to the US on Monday, with the Blues set to contest friendly matches against Arsenal in Baltimore and Minnesota United in Minneapolis.

Centre-back Godfrey believes the tour will further strengthen the bond between an already tight-knit squad and revealed the collective focus within the group on ensuring they go into the new season in the best condition possible.

Speaking to evertontv, he said: “’I’m so fortunate to be a part of this squad. It’s enjoyable every single day and, alongside that, we graft as well.

“The lads here have kept themselves in good shape over the summer – they’ve come back fit and raring to go. We’re enjoying being back.

“You should always come back with a good baseline level of fitness, ready to kick on into more regular pre-season games when we go on tour – and progressing into match fitness for the Premier League, which will come around quickly.

“It’s a hard-working group and it’s a pleasure to be part of. It makes life so much better when you enjoy your place of work.”

On the US tour, he added: “We’re all looking forward to going to the States. We went to Orlando last year and it was really good.

“This time, there will hopefully be just a bit more freedom without the [Covid-19] restrictions in place, where you had to be in your bubbles.

“It’ll definitely be good to engage with the supporters more. That’s important for us and for them.”

Everton have bolstered their centre-back options with the signing of Tarkowski, and Godfrey explained how the 29-year-old has already made a hugely positive impression a during his first week at the Club.

Tarkowski joins the Blues with 194 Premier League games under his belt for previous club Burnley – and having started more than 30 top-flight matches in each of his past five seasons with the Clarets.

“He’s settled in well,” Godfrey said. “He’s a great guy. I knew he was a great lad before he came, just from knowing people through football. 

“He’s a good addition personality-wise and, as a player, there’s no doubt what he can do. He’s been unbelievable in the Premier League for many, many years. A lot of us can learn from his experience. I think he’s a great addition.”

“Competition for places is important. It encourages each and every one of us defenders to train hard every day and do everything we can to make sure we’re in that starting XI. It’s healthy competition and we’re also there to support each other.”

Godfrey was unable to feature in Everton’s opening four matches of last season after testing positive for Covid-19 on the eve of the campaign getting under way.

The 24-year-old is eager to hit the ground running this time around and lay the foundations for a strong 2022/23 term.

“I caught Covid at a bad time last year,” he said. “I worked hard in pre-season, then that happened, so I was gutted. 

“It does take its toll on you. It’s hard to get back to full match fitness after that. Fingers crossed nothing like that happens and I can avoid it.”

Godfrey added: “We’ve had a good week so far. It’s always nice to have a training game after the summer break. 

“The lads seemed like they enjoyed it. 

“The young lads did well, too, they were tough to play against, which is a good sign for the future.”