Under-18s forward Rafael Garcia says he is eager to continue progressing at “a great club with a brilliant history” after signing a first professional contract for Everton.

The talented attacker, who turned 17 earlier this month, has signed a deal until the end of June 2022.

Garcia joined the Blues from Fulham in 2017 and praised the support he has received from the Club since swapping the capital for Merseyside.

The youngster will miss the rest of this season having suffered an ACL injury while in pre-season.

Garcia insists he will be working hard during his rehabilitation to return a stronger player ahead of the 2020/21 campaign.

“Signing a first pro contract is a huge thing and hopefully it will be the start of something big,” the England Under-16 international told evertonfc.com.

“I’ve had so much help since I’ve joined Everton, from my teammates, my coaches and the staff.

“The people at Everton are very nice and very kind. The transition has been easy.

“It is a great club to be at, with a brilliant history.

“Getting the injury was a blow but the aim is to get back for pre-season next year and be stronger and fitter that I was.

“I’m in the gym every day and working hard.”

Garcia also praised the expert coaching he has received at Everton and says he has matured both as a player and a person since joining the Club.

He set out his ambition to develop into a potent all-round forward.

“I came to Everton because I wanted a new challenge,” he explained.

“It’s been great for me and I feel I have improved so much.

“Paul Tait [the Under-18s manager] has been a big influence and I’ve learned a lot from him.

“I want to do well at every age group and score more goals. I can play across all parts of the front line and I love to score.”