Charly Alcaraz has said that he has been surprised by the passion of Everton fans, even after his time at Juventus and Flamengo.
Alcaraz first arrived at Everton on loan in January before making the move permanent last summer.
The midfielder has had a tough spell at Hill Dickinson Stadium since then, and his playing time has been limited.
He has played just 673 minutes in the Premier League this season, with David Moyes opting to rely more on Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall.
Alcaraz recently returned from an injury that kept him out over the New Year period and is now back in contention for selection.
Even with limited appearances, he has made it clear that he is determined to prove himself to Moyes and earn a regular place in the side.
Charly Alcaraz believes Everton fans are a cut above the rest
While results at Hill Dickinson Stadium have not been exactly what supporters hoped for, Alcaraz says he was drawn to the club by the chance to play in front of their fans.
Speaking to Everton’s website, he explained just how much their backing means to him, saying: “Honestly, when they chant my name even before I come on, it gives me goosebumps because it’s something that doesn’t happen for every player. It really is special.
“I’ve been at some really big clubs with superb fans, but I think Everton fans are also very different because they’re brilliant. They’re always singing, they’re always there.
“Since I arrived, I’ve always been treated well, everyone has always been good to me, so that’s why I decided to stay here.
“I can continue to enjoy being here with the fans, at this big and wonderful club that is Everton, so hopefully I can stay for more years to come.”
The midfielder has not seen much action recently under Moyes, getting just 11 minutes across four league matches.
And when he did start against Bournemouth last December, some fans were not impressed with his display.
Charly Alcaraz could get a look up front amid Everton’s attacking issues
Moyes has not had many answers in attack this season. Thierno Barry and Beto have both struggled with consistency and finishing chances.
The Toffees have found goals hard to come by throughout most of the campaign.
In that context, Everton News columnist Alan Myers even floated the idea of using Alcaraz as a striker option, given how much others were struggling.
If not as a forward though, all supporters know from last season that Charly can still bring creative value in midfield.
During his loan spell under Moyes then, he provided two goals and three assists – numbers that stack up pretty well compared to other current squad members.
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