Browning ready for a hard summer as he bids for Everton first team

Everton defender Tyias Browning insists there will be no time for relaxation this summer as he looks to return to peak fitness in time for the start of the new season.

Browning endured a difficult 12 months after suffering a knee injury in December 2015 before joining Preston North End on loan to see out the rest of the 2016-17 campaign.

The 23-year-old has made nine first-team appearances for the Toffees to date, and is yet to play under Everton boss Ronald Koeman.

But he’s determined to impress when the side reconvene for pre-season training on July 3, as he looks to cement his place in the first team.

(Photo by Tony McArdle/Everton FC via Getty Images)

“I’ve had enough time off with my injury, so I don’t need the summer off,” he said.

“I’ll be working away, trying to get back to peak fitness in time for the start of pre-season.

“I’ll have a short holiday, but the work doesn’t stop for me this summer. I’ll be in and out of the training ground and doing my own bits.

“I missed the last pre-season with my injury so it’s important I get a full one under my belt this time around. It’s an opportunity for me to impress the manager and his staff. I’ve got a lot to prove and I want to work my way in. I’m looking forward to it.

“Because of the time I’ve been out injured and the loan spell, I haven’t had a chance to work with the manager too much yet, so I’m looking forward to it.”