Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford believes his side's home form is going to be crucial in them securing a top six finish this season.
With Manchester United and Chelsea seemingly going through transitional periods, many within the footballing world are predicting that there could be a something of a different look to the top six this season.
And with the Blues having once again spent big this summer, with Marco Silva adding seven new additions to his squad, the Toffees are being tipped as one team who could topple the established order.
And Pickford , who is currently away on international duty with England, believes his side, who are currently six unbeaten at Goodison , need to ensure their home remains a fortress for visiting opposition if they are to do so.
He told Sky Sports: "I think it'll be a great one. We just have to keep picking up points. Our home form is going to be crucial for that.
"We have carried that on from last season. We have to keep doing that now.
"Everton back in the day, their home record was incredible. I think this is my third season and towards the back end of last season, we started to get that [home form back]. If we make Everton a fortress then it'll be hard for teams to come there."
Pickford has so far been in inspired form this season, keeping two clean sheets in four Premier League games, as well as producing a string of fine stops at key movements, but the stopper refused to be drawn into praising his own form and instead insisted it's all about his side winning.
"I think I am in good form," the former Sunderland man said.
"I think I have kicked on. I feel strong. Clean sheets, of course, I want to keep clean sheets every game. The main thing for me is that is winning. As long as you win if you have to concede now and again then it's alright. I have been making good saves and my distribution has been good.
"With the calmness, it's all about playing out from the back. It's just knowing game management really. In terms of calmness, I have thought about a lot to become calmer."
