Everton make academy changes

[Getty Images] Everton are hopeful a number of changes at the club's academy will "drive standards" and "create a culture where players and coaches can fulfil their potential". The adjustments have been overseen by technical director Nick Cox. Deam Rastrick - who became academy director in June - and arrives "with a truly exceptional CV", says Cox. Cox told evertonfc.com: "We've spent the last six months conducting a strategic review of our Academy structure and these changes and appointments are part of that process. "Our focus is on building an outstanding learning environment that is challenging, nurturing and supportive. To achieve that, it's essential we identify and empower leaders who can drive standards, and create a culture where players and coaches can fulfil their potential. "Dean's arrival is key to that vision. He arrives with a truly exceptional CV. His extensive experience across respected youth systems - including Norwich City, Tottenham Hotspur, Luton Town, and Derby County - alongside his impactful work with the Premier League's Professional Game Academy Audit Company (PGAAC), gives him incredible insight and expertise in all aspects of player development and driving Academy excellence." As part of the changes and working within a structure lead by Rastrick, Carl Darlington has become Everton's head of academy coach development, Dave Hughes joins the club in the new role of head of academy player development, Ben Dickson has been promoted to head of academy recruitment and Nick Chadwick has been appointed PDP senior coach & loans programme manager. Paul Tait has left the academy after 16 years, vacating his role as under-21 head coach, with Hughes inheriting the responsibility as part of his head of academy player development position. Cox added: "I'd like to thank Paul for his passion, dedication, loyalty and commitment during his time at Everton, and everyone at the Club wishes him all the very best for the future."