Ben Godfrey admits it was great to be back in the starting line-up on Sunday and believes the growing competition within the defence can only be a positive in terms of driving standards in the team.  

The defender, who suffered a fractured fibula and damaged ankle ligaments less than 10 minutes into Everton’s opening-day clash with Chelsea back in August, made his long-awaited return to action on Boxing Day but has since been made to bide his time for regular action.

Opportunity knocked on Sunday, though, with Vitalii Mykolenko ruled out of the encounter away to Nottingham Forest through illness meaning Godfrey, renowned for his positional versatility, was handed his first start under new manager Sean Dyche.   

The Everton boss was full of praise for Godfrey following the clash, telling evertontv: “I must mention Ben Godfrey as well... it’s not easy getting slotted in. Myko was ill, he slots in and he gets on with his job. I was very pleased for him.”  

On his performance, Godfrey said: “I enjoyed it [returning to the starting XI]. I always enjoy being on the pitch trying to help the boys. It’s a shame we didn’t get the three points but it’s always enjoyable being out there playing for this Club.  

“There’s healthy competition. We have got some good players in the defensive line that are all eager to get on the pitch. It’s important we have that competition each and every day. It keeps your standards high in training. There are good characters and quality, which is important."

Everton took the lead twice in Sunday’s frantic contest but were ultimately forced to settle for a draw. Godfrey, though, believes it’s important the team take the positives from the performance and use it as a platform to build on.   

"We always go into every game trying to get three points. If you don’t win, then you need to not lose it and pick up a point,” he continued.  

“It’s always disappointing when you lose the lead, we have done that twice. But a point away from home is always a bonus. We learn from it and go again." 

Up next for the Blues is a tough home clash with Brentford (Saturday, 3pm GMT). The Bees will arrive at Goodison Park on the back of an impressive 3-2 win over Fulham on Monday night.   

Godfrey, however, adds the mood in the camp is good and that the players are enjoying life under Dyche and his staff, meaning they'll go into Saturday’s contest confident.  

“Every point matters when you are in this situation," tells Godfrey, "Everyone is disappointed (that we never held on Sunday) but there are positives to take.  

“I know that’s a cliché, but every game is going to be important for us. It’s been really good so far under the manager and his staff. It’s never easy when a new manager comes in and is trying to get his ideas across in the middle of the season.   

“But I think we have reacted well and the lads are enjoying it. You can see that out there.”