Abdoulaye Doucoure believes plenty of fight and early intensity were key factors in Everton’s 5-1 victory over Brighton on Monday evening as he praised manager Sean Dyche for his Blues resurgence.

The Toffees blew away their high-flying hosts, striking three times in the first 45 minutes, before netting two more in the second half. 

Doucoure, who scored both first-half goals, spoke post-match and explained how important he felt Everton's impressive mentality was in securing the triumph. 

“We played against a tough opponent, but we knew we needed a big result, and tonight we got that," said the midfielder. 

“We know we have great strengths in the team and we have a good mentality. There are still three big games left. The job is not done yet.

"Tonight, we showed character and were on the front foot. When you play like this, you fight, and you want it more than the opponent, then you can get these good results.” 

As well as acknowledging the mental strength of the team, Doucoure also praised the tactical plan that was implemented by boss Dyche and insisted that the early goal was a huge factor in Everton’s success. 

“The gamep lan was working perfectly in the first half and we scored early on,” he said. “The tempo from Brighton was a bit slow. We know they’re a great team, but we forced them to play out wide, and we know when they did that, they had more difficulties in breaking us down." 

The Everton midfielder has been a mainstay in the starting XI under Dyche and admits he is grateful for his continued inclusion under the Blues manager – even after his suspension following a red card against Tottenham Hotspur. 

“It was very hard [being suspended], to be honest,” said Doucoure on his three-game ban as a result of his dismissal for shoving Spurs' Harry Kane. "Of course, it was a stupid red card, and I should’ve avoided that, especially in that moment. But now, I feel good, and I like helping the team. 

“I’ve always been the same player. Under the previous manager, it was the first time that I hadn’t played as much. 

“Sean Dyche came in, and he saw the strengths and qualities that I’ve always had, and I feel very happy working under him. It’s great to help the team.”