Hearts striker Ellis Simms sees his future with parent club Everton.

Simms may have tasted defeat today in the Scottish Cup Final with his loan club Hearts against Rangers, but the 21-year-old remains hopeful of making a break into the Blues' first team under Frank Lampard.

Simms has impressed since moving north to the Scottish Premier League in January, scoring seven goals in 20 appearances.

He told the Athletic: “I try to watch every Everton game because at the end of the day my aim is to break into that first team. Going on loan builds my profile and hopefully I can show the manager what I'm about in pre-season.

“I'm contracted to Everton so I'll be happy with whatever they think is best for my development. It's nice to see that there is that pathway there, like with Anthony (Gordon). He's got in the team, done well, and stayed there. Had a great season.

“You see with Anthony and Tom (Davies) that you'll play if you're good enough. I know if I keep working hard and playing well, I'll eventually get a chance. Then it's down to me what I do with that opportunity."