Everton manager Rafael Benitez praised Norwich City ahead of their Premier League meeting on Saturday.

Since his appointment at Goodison Park in the summer, the Spanish manager has overseen five league outings, with the Toffees collecting 10 points from his opening four games before being handed their first league defeat of the season by Aston Villa.

The Merseyside outfit then fell short to Championship side Queens Park Rangers in their EFL Cup tie last time out, as they lost in a penalty shootout after Lucas Digne and Andros Townsend had got on the scoresheet to peg back the hosts, who twice took the lead through Charlie Austin.

Speaking to the press ahead of their clash with Norwich, Benitez said: "It's really important for us. Especially at home I think the fans appreciate the commitment and intensity. Norwich are more dangerous than people think. They can make mistakes, but they can be a nightmare."

Following their promotion from the Championship last season, the Canaries are yet to collect a point in the Premier League, and currently prop up the division as a result.

Benitez also confirmed that the Toffees will remain without attacking duo Richarlison and Dominic Calvert-Lewin, as they both continue spells on the sidelines through injury.