Jack Harrison insists his demands and values fit perfectly with Evertonians' as the winger outlined the "positivity and energy" he can provide after an impressive full Blues debut.
During his first start on Saturday, the summer loan arrival scored an incredible goal, as well as an assist to help the Toffees to a 3-0 victory over Bournemouth at Goodison.
The goal contributions add Harrison to a list of just four previous Everton players who have scored and assisted on their full Premier League debut (Marcus Bent, Royston Drenthe, Romelu Lukaku and Gerard Deulofeu).
Aside from the potent attacking output, the 26-year-old produced a well-rounded and determined display. Winning nine defensive duels, only Amadou Onana totalled more than Harrison, whose work rate was evident from the off.
“You see how much it means to the fans when you’re working hard and for me, I’ve always said that’s the least you can do,” said Harrison, speaking to evertontv after Saturday’s win.
“I always try to replicate that. It’s an honour to be out there and to leave everything out there is what I always try to do. It’s nice that the Everton fans pick up on that.
“I’m building back my fitness now. I was a little bit tired towards the end, but I’ll always keep pushing myself to the limit, and it’s great to do that in front of fans that appreciate it.”
Following the match, manager Sean Dyche revealed Harrison was at risk of missing the contest having picked up a hamstring niggle in midweek.
"It was a worrying one,” said Dyche. “Should he play, should he not? But he said clearly, 'No, I want to play'.
"I thought he was excellent. That effervescent that can rub off on others, I was pleased for him."
Such a determined attitude is one that Harrison, who made at least 35 league appearances in each of his five seasons at Leeds United, revealed he has always had. The forward hopes it can continue to boost the squad.
"It's something I like to bring to the team - a lot of positivity and a lot of energy,” said Harrison. “It’s something my mum has always told me since I was young, so I always try to keep that with me. That’s the least you can do as a footballer.
“I never like to be settled with just satisfactory. To build a winner’s mentality is a characteristic that you need and if I can bring this to the team and help a few others to push each other to the limit and to the next level, then that’s ultimately what it’s about.
“There’s a massive group of talent here and I think if everybody can increase that mentality a little bit here and there, then we can be even better.
“It was nice to get back out there, and I hope to build up my fitness a little bit more. It was definitely a good day for everyone and I’m excited about the future.”
