Baines backs Everton youngsters

Baines feels Everton's young players have acquitted themselves well

Everton defender Leighton Baines has echoed team-mate Leon Osman's view that the club's younger players are enjoying some impressive form.

Baines and Osman have both expressed their delight at the form of the club's young stars in recent weeks.

"They've been fantastic throughout pre-season and they've come in and haven't looked out of place," Baines told BBC Radio Merseyside.

"We've got young lads there who are more than capable."

Teenager Jack Rodwell, who can play in defence but has been used in midfield this season, saw his goal in the 2-1 win at West Bromwich Albion disallowed.

Baines believes the decision by the match officials was harsh.

"It looked fine and as soon as I saw him go up and it hit the back of the net I was over the moon for him.

"I was devastated when I saw it disallowed so I can't really imagine how he must have felt.

"He's looked dangerous on a few of them so far, he gets up well, so I think he's going to be a threat at set pieces."