Lewis Dobbin says he is fully focused on catching the eye of Everton manager Sean Dyche having returned to the Blues "more mature on and off the pitch" following a productive loan spell.

The Stoke-born forward, who joined the Club aged 11, spent the 2022/23 campaign with Derby County, making 54 appearances and 11 goal contributions (five goals, six assists) in all competitions for the Rams.

Upon returning to Everton this summer, Dobbin was included in the Men's Senior Team's pre-season camp in Lake Geneva and notched his first 90 minutes in the 1-1 draw at Tranmere Rovers on Saturday.

That was followed by another start and 77 minutes in the goalless draw at Bolton Wanderers three days later, with Dobbin frequently involved in some of the Toffees' most threatening play during an encouraging first half.

"I'm enjoying it," Dobbin told evertontv. "[Against Bolton] I wanted to go enjoy the experience and show what I can do. Hopefully I did that.

"I think pre-season has been tough but I'm really feeling the benefits on the pitch. I feel sharp and I'm getting sharper every week, so it's good.

"[The pre-season camp in Lake Geneva] was a tough week, to be fair! But it was good - good to get away with the team, bond with everyone and get to know new people. 

"The staff have been really good with me. They've tried to teach me their way of playing and how I can develop my game. It's going well. Hopefully I'm shining on the pitch a little bit and I can keep that going."

A skilful and quick attacker, Dobbin was given the nod to play just behind Neal Maupay in a 4-4-1-1 formation as Dyche fielded an experienced side for the opening period at the Toughsheet Community Stadium.

And the 20-year-old says he is already feeling the benefits of picking up vital experience in senior football last term. 

"On and off the pitch I've matured a lot and I think that's showing in my game," he added. "I've learned how to use my body better, when to release the ball and things like that. 

"I can definitely feel the difference. I've got a full season of senior football under my belt now and you feel better for that coming back here now. 

"Hopefully I can keep developing and going in the right direction under the manager.

"I'll keep working hard, keep trying to catch the eye and hopefully get the rewards for that."