Everton youngster Con Ouzounidis has explained how club legend Tim Cahill has been helping him progress.
The 20-year-old recently signed a new deal at Goodison Park, which keeps him at the club until next summer.
The young centre-back has progressed through Everton ’s academy, but is yet to feature for the first-team.
Born in Australia, Ouzounidis took inspiration from his compatriot Cahill, who made a name for himself during his time with the Blues.
Ouzounidis says he often speaks to Cahill, and takes encouragement from the former Everton striker.
“I speak to Tim a lot - he’s always around the academy and I’ve gone to him for advice a lot because of the legend he is,” Ouzounidis told The World Game.
“He’s always offering support and encouragement... I think coming from the same area helps.
“I’m constantly picking his brain to improve my own game. He was my hero growing up. I watched him play in the Premier League.
“And all of a sudden I’m speaking to him most days (when he’s around the academy).”
Despite not yet featuring for the first-team, Ouzounidis has certainly impressed for David Unsworth’s under-23 side.
The young defender says the arrival of Carlo Ancelotti has already helped his game, even at youth level, and feels the opportunity to play in the first team will be there for him under the new manager.
“That’s what you’re taught at a young age at the Everton academy and that’s something I take pride in,” Ouzounidis added, talking about being calm and assured in possession.
“It’s in the club’s DNA and even more so now with somebody like Carlo Ancelotti coming in. A class manager like him wants everybody to be comfortable on the ball.
“He’s right behind the younger players - and that gives you the confidence to go out and express yourself.
“He puts it in your mind that there’s always a pathway for you.
“It’s unbelievable to be able to say you play for Everton Football Club. It’s a dream for an Aussie boy who followed the club because Tim Cahill played here.”
