Clare Wheeler believes she is beginning to thrive in an Everton jersey after an impressive run of games.

The Australian started deep in midfield during Sunday’s 0-0 draw against Leicester City.

The 25-year-old - who made her switch to Merseyside permanent in January - struggled with injuries during the first half of her maiden season in England.

However, since the turn of the new year, Wheeler has started three of the past five league outings for the Blues.

“It was good to get another 90 [minutes] in,” she told evertontv.

“For myself, this year is about getting more game time, becoming a consistent player in this team after my first six months being a bit up and down.

“I’m happy to get the start and complete the 90 minutes but obviously we’re looking for a better result.

“That six role in the midfield, I love to play it.

“Each week you build chemistry with players that you haven’t played with before.

“Looking forward, it’s about strengthening that bond with time.”

Wheeler's impressive work-rate was matched by her quality of performance at the weekend, with the Coffs Harbour-born midfielder one of the Blues' stand-out performers after a battling display against the Foxes.

“I know I’m not the tallest, that just makes me try twice as hard to do things," she said.

“The role of a six is to get stuck in. Whether that’s in the air or being a little menace at your feet, that’s what I’m going to do.”

Up next for Everton is the Merseyside derby at Goodison Park on Friday 24 March (7.30pm GMT) in what is set to be a historic night.

The squad trained at the Grand Old Lady earlier this season, but Wheeler says she cannot wait to soak up the atmosphere under the Friday night lights.

“This is a great opportunity to get back to winning ways at Goodison," she added.

“With the win at Anfield, we’ll definitely not let them win at Goodison.

“We’re out to win and get those three points. It’ll be a huge boost for us in the table if we do so count on a win.”