Tyias Browning is relishing the added responsibility that comes with captaining Everton Under-21s.
The defender has skippered the young Blues throughout pre-season and was at his commanding best in the 1-1 draw with Real Betis B on Wednesday evening.
Softly spoken off the pitch, Browning says he tries set an example when on it.
“It’s the best feeling to be able to lead the team,” he explained to evertontv. “You’ve got to be more of a leader and more vocal. You have got to be a role model for the rest of the players.
“I’m quite a relaxed captain but I’m getting used to it.”
With regular Under-21s skipper Shane Duffy part of the first-team squad in America, Browning has assumed occupancy of the armband in the build-up to the new season.
Browning was named on the bench for the first-team once last season – at home to Chelsea in December – and he believes his progress was largely down to playing alongside his defensive teammate.
“I learnt everything off him [Duffy],” added Browning. “I played with him all last season and he was quite vocal and helped me a lot.
“He helped a lot with his talking. He was always next to me heading the ball and communicating with me.”
Browning now believes Everton Under-21s are fully prepared for the new season after putting in the hard yards at their training camp in Spain.
He continued: “Everyone has found it tough but we have all got to know each other. Most of us got 90 minutes and proved our fitness.
“Everyone is looking forward to the first game now. Hopefully we can have a successful season.”