Jake O’Brien says something has changed at Everton in recent weeks

Add as preferred source on Google

Everton have now moved back into the top half of the Premier League table following their 1-0 win against Bournemouth.

David Moyes’ side have one of the best away records in the Premier League this calendar year, and the Everton manager was keen to put that point across after the game.

There were a number of standout performances on the south coast, with Toffees supporters impressed by Carlos Alcaraz and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall.

Jake O’Brien also earned lots of plaudits and spoke to Everton’s website post-match about a change in belief recently.

• READ MORE: David Moyes simply has to drop one Everton star after Bournemouth win and he knows it

Jake O’Brien says Everton are growing in belief

It’s been quite a strange start for Everton, as they’ve ended up falling in the bottom half of the table at different stages.

But now they suddenly find themselves back in the top half and within touching distance of the European spots.

O’Brien explains that he’s noticed a growing belief within the camp over the last few weeks.

“The mentality in the group is very good. We’ve got a strong group of lads and a lot of leaders in the changing room. Those things helped us bounce back. We knew we needed to put it behind us quickly because the next game was coming and we did that.

“It wasn’t just the defenders making us solid but everyone played their part. The midfielders won the ball back a lot in midfield and got us up the pitch and the forward players kept it there, so it was a good all-round performance from everyone.

“We have belief. It’s special to be part of this group and be looking upwards. We’ve got a lot of games over Christmas so we want to keep it going.”

Everton are a striker away from becoming a European level side

Everton have now won three of their last four games in the Premier League and are showing all the hallmarks of a top six or seven side.

They’ve kept three clean sheets in that time, too, and that’s even without their best defender Jarrad Branthwaite.

Perhaps the only thing that’s holding them back is the lack of goals from Thierno Barry and Beto, who have one league goal between them this season.

If Everton were to sign an Ivan Toney, or even bring Richarlison back, they’d genuinely become serious contenders for Europe.

Harrison Armstrong returning from Preston North End would also boost their chances, as he’d bring the midfield up a level.