Michael Keane believes the arrival of James Tarkowski has boosted Everton's squad by intensifying the battle for first team places.
The centre-back is the Blues' only signing of the summer so far but has had an immediate impact, his teammate said. He joins what was already a competitive fight to start in the club's backline - even with Jarrad Branthwaite's departure to PSV Eindhoven on loan.
Tarkowski joins fellow centre backs Keane, Yerry Mina, Mason Holgate, Ben Godfrey and youngster Reece Welch in Everton's first team squad. Seamus Coleman, currently injured, also operated in that position late last year. Speaking after the win at Blackpool, Keane said: "The competition for places brings out the best of the lads in training every day."
