Everton manager Sean Dyche insists he couldn't be prouder of his players this season.

The Toffees are going through a tough time financially as their takeover by 777 Partners has stalled.

Meanwhile, they have a six point deduction in the Premier League, which may become 12 if they are hit with another FFP rules breach ban.

As they prepare to face Manchester United on Saturday, Dyche stated: “They've been nice and bright today, they're certainly putting a shift in, that's for sure. To give you the bigger picture, I couldn't be more proud of the players here.

“From what they've been through over the last few seasons. When I got here it was just constant negativity everywhere.

“They managed to somewhat change that, then when we changed it of course we get 10 points taken away, then they went: 'Right, let's get on with it,' got on with it again, then we get six points taken away and four given back, still getting on with it, still working hard in training, still working hard for the badge, for the shirt and myself, the club. I couldn't be more pleased with them.

“People can go under in these circumstances. Our group here just continually work properly on the training ground, work properly for each other and take the games on.

“That's the mentality we want through thick and thin. That's the right mentality for this football club in my opinion."