Amadou Onana recognises that Everton are benefitting from a "healthier" mentality amongst the squad and believes his side’s strong form is helped by an "extra push" provided by Evertonians - both at home and away.

Featuring in his first Blues start for more than a month, the Toffees midfielder – who had been suffering with a calf issue – made an emphatic return to the starting line-up on Saturday evening at Turf Moor, heading Everton into the lead after just 19 minutes.

Michael Keane doubled the advantage shortly after, before Sean Dyche’s side showcased an organised defensive display to limit Burnley, who were chasing the game, to just two second-half shots on target.

In the 2-0 victory over the Clarets, Onana produced a dominant midfield performance, winning 11 of his 14 duels – more than anyone else on the field.

The Belgium international was delighted with the victory, and to have scored his first Premier League goal of the season.

“It was unbelievable,” said Onana, speaking to evertontv about his goal. “The noise in the crowd is just fantastic. I’ve been waiting so long to get this one. Obviously, you could see the celebration was already prepared, and I’m happy that it worked out for me tonight.

“I feel like the mentality in the team is changing. We’re kind of changing the story. It feels healthier around the dressing room and in the team, so I’m just pleased to be a part of this team.”

The match at Burnley was Everton’s fourth in December, with the Blues winning all four without conceding a single goal.

Another three points on Saturday means Dyche’s side have already won 26 points in this campaign so far and would be level on points with eighth-placed Brighton & Hove Albion had it not been for the Premier League commission's 10-point deduction.

Onana noted the role of the incredible Everton support in boosting the in-form Blues, as he explained: “Every game – home or away – they’re giving us an extra push, and I really want to thank them from the bottom of my heart for that.

“I feel like there are no fans like ours. I’m enjoying it and you can see after the games; I’m going to celebrate with them because I need that. I need to say: ‘Thank you’ and that’s my way of thanking them.”

Next up for the Toffees is a Carabao Cup quarter-final against Fulham at Goodison Park on Tuesday evening (7.45pm GMT), and Onana is ready for the challenge.

“I’m excited,” he added. “For me, every game is a battle. I want to play in every game possible, so I’m looking forward to it.

“I worked very hard to work my way back into the team and I’m happy to out there, and I’m delighted to have helped the team tonight.”