Everton U23 coach David Unsworth is delighted with the impact of their loan players.

Conor Grant, Callum Connolly and Gethin Jones have all hit the ground running since joining Doncaster Rovers, Wigan Athletic and Barnsley respectively this month.

Unsworth told evertonfc.com: “Joe [Royle] was at Callum's first game against Burton, when he scored twice, and said he was terrific. Then I was at Wigan to watch him on Saturday and he was, without a shadow of a doubt, the best player on the pitch.

“I got home and watched Gethin who was on television. Again, his performance was great and he was playing out of position at left-back.

“You look elsewhere and Conor Grant scored for Doncaster.

“We're riding the crest of a wave at the moment - and long may that continue.

“But I'm not surprised they are doing well because they are top young players. We thank the loan clubs for affording them the opportunity to play at that level every week.

“I'm sure they will come back better players in the summer."