Everton academy chief Ray Hall says Jose Baxter now faces the biggest step in his fledgling career.

The 18 year-old striker was named Everton's Academy Player of the Year this week.

Hall told evertonfc.com: "I think Jose is one of those players which Academies are set up for. He's a local player, who came to us at a very early age with talent, and we provide the avenue for him to as high as he wants to go.

"He's probably got the biggest challenge of his football life now, because he's nearly there. And I think the next step for Jose is the biggest one. He has to move from being outstanding prospect and an outstanding young man, to move into an environment where there are world-class players.

"I believe he's got the mental strength, the ability and the support to get him there."