Everton legend Duncan Ferguson believes that the promoting of youth players at the club is of paramount importance.

The Blues have consistently struggled to match their Premier League rivals financially, and have had to largely rely on the loan markets in recent years. Ferguson, who now works as part of the youth setup, thinks that the club's youngsters can help save manager Roberto Martinez money in the transfer market.

He told the club's official website: "Promoting from within and trying to get the youth through [is paramount]. That's what the club is all about isn't it?

"I've been really pleased with them. They've done really, really well [during pre-season].

"Being back with the first team, it's brought back the memories, but it's all changed now as well. The ball comes out a lot quicker than it used to!"

Everton begin their Premier League campaign with a trip to newly-promoted Leicester City on August 16.