Everton reserves coach Andy Holden expects big things from their England youth international pair Dan Gosling and Jack Rodwell.

Rodwell and Gosling formed an impressive midfield partnership during the second string's goalless draw with Middlesbrough on Monday evening.

Holden told evertonTV: "The work rate and attitude they put in was faultless.

"They had a much more experienced side with three or four of their players having played in the first team alright maybe not as regulars but they have played in their first team.

"One or two of our boys put in a really good performance. Aidan Downes worked his socks off upfront and had a couple of great efforts. I thought Jack Rodwell in midfield was excellent. They (Rodwell and Dan Gosling) are a nice little partnership - one goes forward and the other sits and vice versa. It all goes well for the future with them two."