Amadou Onana says the energy he is fed by Evertonians has played a crucial part in his recent run of excellent form for the Club.

The Belgium international once again impressed in the heart of the Blues' midfield on Saturday, as Sean Dyche's reign as manager began with a memorable 1-0 victory over league leaders Arsenal at Goodison Park.

Onana had 46 touches against the Gunners, completing eight ball recoveries, five ground duels, four tackles and two interceptions, while at the other end, he completed two key passes and created one 'big chance'.

As a unit, Everton covered the most distance of any game this season, with Onana - as well as teammates Dwight McNeil and Abdoulaye Doucoure - covering more ground than any Everton player had so far in 2022/23.

"It was a massive performance, a massive win in front of our fans," Onana told evertontv. "It's good for the confidence. We won this game because of our mentality and our work ethic. I'm very, very proud of this team.

"I think it's partly in what the new staff did and what they've brought in. They bring a good energy, a good atmosphere and they've talked about the mentality that we must have out on the pitch. 

"They require the maximum - that is the minimum!"

The Toffees were once again roared on by another sold-out crowd and highlighting the supporters' influence, Onana continued: "I think it's obvious [how comfortable I am here].

"Everyone can see how much fun I have when I play at Goodison. They give us so much drive and from the bottom of my heart I want to thank them for their support today and the past few months, because I know it's been tough. 

"The fans push us to the limit, to our best. They push me to my limit. Their support is massive.

"I know I've still got a lot to learn, a lot of work to do but I'm very confident and I'm just trying to help the team as much as I can and give my best every week. It starts in training and that's what you see out there."

Next up for Everton is a trip to Anfield to face Liverpool in the 242nd Merseyside derby and Onana has called on his teammates to quickly move on after Saturday's high at Goodison.

"The important thing now is to focus as fast as we can on the next game," he added. "You know how football is, you can beat Arsenal then lose the next one so I really want everyone in the team to focus as quickly as possible and prepare well for the next game.

"It's a massive boost. It's a big one for the confidence of the team but now we have Liverpool next. 

"We need to make sure we're ready."