The midfielder left Villa for Goodison Park this summer.
Everton midfielder Idrissa Gueye has told the Daily Express that Toffees supporters share the same burning passion for their club as fans of his previous club Aston Villa.
Gueye left Villa for Goodison Park this summer after being one of the few stand-out players for the Birmingham club in their terrible season last term.
The combative central midfielder was a source of optimism for Villa fans amidst the gloom, and he has already become a fan favourite on Merseyside since his move.
The 26-year-old has established himself as one of the best central midfielders in the Premier League and has been a key part of Everton’s impressive start to the season.
Gueye thanked the Toffees fans for their support and suggested that they are equally as passionate as the Villa fanbase.
The midfielder told the Express: “We only managed to pick up three victories all season with Villa. But the one real source of motivation was that the fans would appreciate you if they felt you put effort in and worked hard and did your best. So that is what I tried to do.
“The fans at Everton are like that. They live for the club. Maybe I am exaggerating by saying they would rather spend their money on going to the match than eating, but it is that feeling. They are willing to die for the colours almost, so it is your absolute duty to perform to your best level.
“It didn’t turn out well at Villa. Unfortunately the team went down but now, turning a page on that, Everton saw something in my game and in my qualities. Now it is all about trying to pay them back. I am grateful in the confidence they showed me and I want to pay that back by working hard throughout the season and give it my best and learning all the time.”
Everton fans will be pleased to see Gueye acknowledge their support, and will be hoping that he can continue as a key player for the remainder of the campaign.
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