The former junior mentor of Everton star Marouane Fellaini says his future lies beyond Goodison Park.

Karim Mariage was Fellaini's coach at Mons and also Belgian second division side Francs Borains.

He told the Liverpool Echo: "I coached him at 16 when he ate football and dreamed football. It was everything to him then. I have to say he was a coach's dream. He worked hard and I can only say he was a pleasure to work with.

"I watched him develop at Francs Bourain and then had the chance to coach him against at Mons. I spoke with the manager there and said we must put him in the first team despite his young age. It was only a matter of time before the decision was proven right and pretty soon he was being considered by other clubs.

"By the time he went to Standard he had a good mentality and was a strong person. He is a shining example to everyone. His height was a gift from God. He went to the national side for U16s, U18s, U19s and it was just natural he would play in the top leagues.

"His father Abdelattif had a great belief in his soon, he believed in Marouane more than anyone. All parents think their kids are great, but he knew Marouane had what it takes to succeed. He was convinced his son would play in the Jupiler Pro League first division. He had been a good player himself but did not get the opportunity to play at the top level and he wanted that for his son.

"To move to Everton and live alone in England when you are 20 like he did was commendable. It was hard for him at first but he did it.

"I've enjoyed watching him grow in England. I watch him every weekend and his evolution has been rapid. Eventually I think he will go on to play in Spain for Real Madrid or Barcelona."