England youth international Anthony Gordon highlighted Everton’s track record of producing “quality homegrown players” after signing his first professional contract with the Club.

The Academy graduate penned a deal earlier this month that will keep him at Goodison Park until June 2022.

The dynamic forward - who turned 18 in February - has enjoyed an impressive campaign, establishing himself in David Unsworth’s Everton Under-23 squad. He set out his determination to continue his impressive development and detailed why he was so eager to commit his future to the Club.

“I love it here,” said Gordon, who is currently on international duty with England Under-18s. “I always have, I’m a Scouser! The Club has shown over the years how they produce quality homegrown players.

“They have shown great belief in me, too, and that’s where I get my confidence from. It’s a great place for young players.

“To sign this contract… it’s like a goal completed. It’s all I have wanted since I was a kid and, for all my hard work to have paid off, it means the world to me and my family.”

Gordon already has an Everton first-team appearance to his name, having been introduced as a second-half substitute in the Blues’ 3-0 Europa League victory over Apollon Limassol in December 2017.

He has been capped eight times for England at Under-18 level and explained how the encouraging atmosphere at Everton has been instrumental in his development.

“I really enjoy the coaching, it gives me good challenges,” he said. “I think I have improved a lot defensively over the past year.

“There is a lot of variety and, as a young player, it helps you to adapt to certain situations, which you find later in your career.

“I’m really enjoying my football here.”