Everton defender Michael Keane says last season was the worst of his career.

However, he feels the Great Escape brought the club closer together.

"The way the whole Club came together [in closing months of 2021/22] was special and it shows you what this club is about," said Keane to the club's website.

“Bringing 3,000 to Blackpool for a pre-season friendly, the way they supported us at the end of last year [was incredible] – and I am sure the fans enjoyed seeing how we responded.

“We want to keep that positive momentum and start the season strongly and I am sure the fans will be right behind us.

“Everyone at the Club will agree last season was the toughest of their careers.

“It is not where a club like Everton should be, we know that, we weren't good enough as a squad.

“We dug deep when we had to and that got us through, we have to do that all season and, hopefully, we won't find ourselves anywhere near that position.

“I hope the fans see [players' effort] – I do my best every day in training and whenever I play.

“Everyone makes mistakes, that is part of the game, but I don't think the fans could look at us and say we weren't trying [last season].

“There was a lack of quality at times and low confidence and a bit of bad luck, but we managed to pull through that.

“The lads are united, the team spirit is really good, that got stronger over the final six weeks of last season, the way everyone pulled together, and that will stand us in good stead going forwards."