Steve Round (right) in his days as an England coach

Everton assistant manager Steve Round is impressed with the youngsters he has inherited at Goodison Park.

But the former England coach feels the work is just beginning and that they must continue to improve.

"I think they have great futures ahead of them," David Moyes' number two told BBC Radio Merseyside.

"If they can continue their development the way they have done up to now, there is no reason why they can't have great careers at Everton," he said.

Round saw Everton draw their final friendly 1-1 with PSV Eindhoven at the weekend as they prepare for this Saturday's Premier League opener with Blackburn Rovers at Goodison.

It's great for the club that we have this in reserve Steve Round

And, having seen a number of Academy products play against the Dutch champions, Round admits it is good for everyone that there is a clear pathway to the first team squad.

"It's really important that all the younger players at Everton see there are opportunities for them. That there is a way to go.

"Even the lads younger than these can see the Jack Rodwells and the Dan Goslings getting a chance in the first team. It's great motivation for them."

Round, lured from Newcastle United last month, believes that when new signings arrive, the young players will add depth to the Blues squad.

"We're obviously looking," said Round. "The chairman and the manager are trying very hard to bring in players and hopefully we'll see something materialise in the next week or two to support these young lads.

"But it's great for the club that we have this in reserve."