Dominic Calvert-Lewin says he feels “fit, sharp and raring to go” as anticipation builds ahead of Everton’s Premier League opener against Chelsea at Goodison Park on Saturday.

The striker believes the squad’s sense of togetherness can provide a platform for a successful campaign, and explained how that strong team spirit has helped Everton’s summer signings swiftly acclimatise at the Club.

Calvert-Lewin was on target as Everton beat Dynamo Kyiv 3-0 in Friday’s ‘Match for Peace’ at Goodison, netting with a clever glancing header from James Tarkowski’s pinpoint lofted through pass.

The 25-year-old says the game represented ideal preparation for the return of competitive top-flight action – and believes he can continue to benefit from new arrival Tarkowski’s vision and quality on the ball.

“It’s always important for a centre-forward to get on the scoresheet, especially before the season starts to build confidence,” Calvert-Lewin told evertontv.

“It was a great ball from Tarky from the back, something we spoke about in the week, so it was nice to execute that on the day. 

“When you know you can get service from different areas of the pitch, it’s a good feeling going into a game. When Tarky is getting on the ball, I know he’s got the quality to find the pass, so I’ve got to make the run.

“Coming back to Goodison…the last time I was here it was different [the dramatic 3-2 win over Crystal Palace] so it was a special feeling coming back and scoring early.

“It’s been a good pre-season so far, I’ve been working hard, getting fit and I’m feeling strong and sharp

“I’m just raring to go. We’ve another week’s prep for the Chelsea game, when we can fine-tune things. We all know we need to be at the top of our game.”

On the unity within the Everton squad, he added: “We’ve got a good group of lads. We mix in the dressing room and it’s a good environment.

“I think that’s important when you are trying to transfer that on to the pitch.

“We’ve been a bit up and down with our pre-season games but, generally, we’ve put the work in, we’re all excited and looking forward to starting the season.”

Everton’s latest summer arrival, Dwight McNeil, introduced himself as a Blues player in style on Friday night, notching a brace in a superb 28-minute substitute appearance. 

McNeil completed his move from Burnley only 24 hours before the Kyiv game, but Calvert-Lewin says he has quickly made a positive impression on his teammates.

“It was a great debut from him,” Calvert-Lewin added. 

“It’s not been in the building long but he’s a good lad. 

“He’s come from a hard-working environment into another one. It was a fantastic performance. 

“I’m sure he’s over the moon and we are, too, to see him hit the back of the net before we start the season.”