Sean Dyche 'spoken to bigger managers' as Everton told what to expect vs Ipswich

Everton manager Sean Dyche will not be lulled into a false sense of security by the form of opponents Ipswich.

The Premier League newcomers have yet to win any of their seven matches since returning to the top flight, but by virtue of drawing four they sit only a point behind the Toffees.

Everton, who have taken five points from the last three matches after losing their first four, have a good record against promoted teams, securing three wins and two draws from their last five encounters.

But despite the upturn in their own form Dyche knows Ipswich will pose a tough test on their own turf.

"You can't take these teams for granted. There are no gimmes," he said. "I've spoken to bigger managers who've done a lot more in the game than me, and they said, 'you can't take anything for granted. You just can't. You have to be right in every game'.

"They've spent a small fortune - or a recognised fortune - in this level of football for a club who've just come up so they're obviously intent on staying in the division.

"They did terrific last season. They're good operators. They're learning as they go. The last time out (a 4-1 defeat by West Ham) was a tough one. That can happen in the Premier League.

"But from what I've seen so far, they're full of endeavour and full of belief to take it on. That's what we've got to be ready for."

Over the next six weeks Everton have a run of fixtures which they have to capitalise on against the likes of Fulham, Southampton and West Ham.

After that a difficult December sees them taking on Manchester United, Liverpool, Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester City.

But Dyche insists he is concentrating on the immediate future, saying: "Our focus has been clear on the challenge right in front of us.

"We can't just keep looking at different areas of the league. We've got to make sure we're right in every game. You can only plan so much looking forwards and this season has been very difficult to plan, anyway.

"With the injuries we've had, it's been a constant process; constant churn of trying to get players fit.

"At the minute, the next game is really important. Be right for that one. We look at who we've got available and hopefully no more injuries; hopefully getting people fitter again, and then we move on to the next one."