Joao Virginia admits it's tough playing backup to Everton senior goalkeeper Jordan Pickford.

Virginia signd a new deal to 2025 last summer.

"I'm hoping to play the cup games, but you never know and you just have to be ready," he said. "I have to keep on going and train well and hopefully the manager will give me another chance for the next game.

"I really enjoyed it, my first time playing with fans at Goodison. Also, it's been a while since I played here, so it was a dream and the way it turned out and to keep a clean sheet was just fantastic.

"It's hard (being back-up). Jordan is a great goalkeeper and my mentality is always to be ready when something happens. When the manager gives you a chance, work hard every day in training and that's how you can be ready for performances like this.

"Our back four are playing so well; they're doing terrific every game. To come in with that confidence that they have their back and I have theirs is terrific."