Ryan Astley says Everton Under-23s are “confident and ready” for Monday’s Merseyside derby showdown at Southport FC (7pm BST) – and revealed his hunger to repay boss David Unsworth’s faith after being given the captain’s armband.

>>>Everton Season Ticket, Lounge and Official Members get free entry to all Everton Under-23s home matches. If you are attending Southport FC, please follow our Code of Conduct. Click here for full details.

The young Blues head into the Liverpool clash buoyed by a stirring opening-day comeback at Blackburn Rovers.

Everton were 2-0 down with just 16 minutes left to play but showcased impressive resolve to strike a late double and earn a creditable point at Ewood Park.

Astley says the nature of that result and performance – combined with the prospect of a high-stakes derby encounter – has given training an extra buzz this week.

“The lads showed great character to come back at Blackburn, which is a big positive to take,” the Wales Under-21 international told evertonfc.com.

“We grinded out the point and now we’re all confident and ready to go.

“We love playing Liverpool. It’s a big game and we’re all raring to go. We know it’s going to be a tough match. 

“We might have to defend sometimes and get into our shape. But we’ve worked on that so we’re ready for it, and we’ll know when to attack and defend. 

“Three points is the aim. That’s the only good outcome.”`

While still just 19 years old, Astley is one of the senior members of a youthful Under-23s group this season.
 
Indeed, the 16-man matchday squad for Monday’s clash at Blackburn featured 10 players aged 18 or under.

Astley described being named as the team’s captain as “a real honour” and says he will strive to lead the side with authority and passion.

“It was a proud moment when Unsy said he wanted me to have the armband – to know that he trusts in me to have that responsibility,” he added. 

“It’s good for my confidence that the manager thinks of me like that. 

“I want to prove to him that I should be captain of this team and I want to help the lads in any way I can.

“I’ve always liked to be vocal.

"The team is very young, which I think is good. 

“They haven’t had as much experience of the Under-23s league and hopefully I can talk to them, get their confidence up, and help us get those wins.”

Astley added he has been impressed with the quality and attitude displayed by the young players making the step up from Paul Tait’s Under-18s side.

“I’m very excited for this season because the lads are really good players,” he said.

“They are technically good, sharp and very motivated to be the best. 

“I think it should be a good season with the talent we’ve got in the squad.”

>>>Everton Season Ticket, Lounge and Official Members get free entry to all Everton Under-23s home matches. If you are attending Southport FC, please follow our Code of Conduct. Click here for full details.