Everton winger Gerard Deulofeu says he is working extremely hard to impress manager Ronald Koeman ahead of the new Premier League season.

Roberto Martinez left his role at Goodison Park after getting the sack on May 12 and was replaced by Koeman, who exited Southampton after two years at the club.

The Toffees are also under new ownership and there is a real sense of optimism leading into the new campaign, with thoughts of a return to Europe on everyone’s mind.

However, the Merseyside club are facing a battle to keep hold of their star players this summer with Manchester City in discussions over a reported £50million move for John Stones.

Belgium international Romelu Lukaku is also rumoured to be heading for an exit, following reports linking former employers Chelsea with a big-money move.

One player that is going nowhere right now is Deulofeu, who has been enjoying a good pre-season after putting a troublesome knee injury behind him.

The 22-year-old Spaniard is hoping for a regular run of games this term and is doing all he can to prove to Koeman he can be a consistent starter.

“I am ready for this season and I hope it is much better than the last one,” Deulofeu said to Everton magazine.

“I want to show my best football to the new manager, the new staff, my teammates and the fans.”

Everton open their season on August 13 with a home clash against Tottenham Hotspur, who will be aiming to mount another challenge for the title.

The hosts are priced at 2.88 to pick up the win, a draw is the outside bet at 3.25 while the visitors are the slight 2.40 favourites.