Everton Under-21s striker Tom Cannon has revealed his excitement linking up again with the manager he enjoyed his “best-ever" season with.

Paul Tait was last month confirmed as Everton’s new Under-21s boss, having been promoted from his role as Under-18s manager.

Tait played a vital role in Cannon’s development during their time in the Under-18s, with the Republic of Ireland youth international emerging as one of the most prolific frontmen in the U18 Premier League. The 2019/20 season, in particular, saw Cannon enjoy a remarkable campaign, as he netted 16 goals in just 15 league matches.

Cannon is currently with the Under-21s squad as they take part in a joint training camp with Leighton Baines’ Under-18s group in York.

And the 19-year-old attacker opened up on why he is savouring the chance to work with Tait again.

Speaking to evertonfc.com, Cannon said: “I had my best-ever season under Taity so, when I found out he was the new Under-21s manager, I was delighted. 

“It’s great for me because he knows me as a player and we get on very well. It [our relationship] is just natural, really.

“He used to be a striker, so he knows what he’s talking about in that sense. He gives me lots of great advice. I’m excited about working with him again.”

Cannon has continued to make positive strides forward following his time in the Under-18s side.

Last year he was Everton Under-23s’ top goalscorer, netting eight times in Premier League 2 despite a challenging campaign for the young Blues, who finished 11th in the table.

“It was important I kept belief even when results weren’t coming for the team,” he added.

“I just had to keep my focus and make sure when I did get chances to score, I took them. 

“I felt I made good progress last season and, speaking to the coaches, they were saying how well I’d done.

“Now, it’s about just trying to keep on developing as much as I can.”

Cannon also discussed the wealth of benefits Everton’s Under-18 and Under-21 squads will take from their demanding York training camp, which got under way on Monday.

“It has been really good so far,” said Cannon. “We’re at a very nice facility. It’s going well and the sessions have been great.

“Mainly this week is about fitness. I was working in the off-season but it’s about getting back up to tempo and dusting off the cobwebs and getting back to it.

“It’s good for team spirit, too. We all get on very well, in the Under-21s squad and the Under-18s. We’re all gelling.”