John Ebbrell wants Everton’s Under-23s to use Goodison Park as a platform to “express themselves” in Tuesday’s Premier League Cup contest with Portsmouth (7pm kick-off).
The Blues are aiming to capitalise on the momentum gained from last week’s come-from-behind league victory over Tottenham Hotspur, when Antony Evans struck twice to ensure David Unsworth’s side returned to action in the best-possible style after a month-long break.
Assistant manager Ebbrell admits cup success is high on the Under-23s' agenda this term following last season’s Premier League 2 title-winning campaign.
And victory over Portsmouth would ease Everton into second spot in their four-team Premier League Cup group – with the top two teams advancing to the last 16.