Tarkowski talks defensive pride as unbeaten Everton build from the back | OneFootball

(Photo by Molly Darlington/Getty Images)

James Tarkowski has said Everton want to continue to take pride in their defensive work after another clean sheet in the 1-0 win over Ipswich Town.

Everton head into the international break unbeaten in the Premier League, and boast the joint-best defensive record in the division, having conceded just three goals in five games.

The Blues battled to three points against Ipswich at the weekend, with Tarkowski influential in a fifth shut-out of the season in only seven games across all competitions for David Moyes' side.

Asked how pleased he has been with Everton's defensive game so far this season, the captain said it's the foundation from which the side want to build from.

"We've always prided ourselves on our defensive solidity and we're going to continue that," Tarkowski told evertonfc.com.

"I know you mentioned us at the back there, but there's a lot of work that goes on in front of us. Harrison [Armstrong] four or five times made some terrific tackles and was tracking back for us. We want to build from that base really. Try and stop as many goals as possible and that gives us a chance of being in the game."

Jarrad Branthwaite's form alongside Tarkowski has led to an England call-up for the 24-year-old, who will hope to add to his single cap during the upcoming break.

Tarkowski said he's delighted for his centre-back partner, but said his international recognition should come as no surprise.

"Delighted. We all know how good he is. Injuries have probably delayed his call-up and kept him back, but now he's back fit and playing every week. We know how good he is, so it's no surprise for me."