Everton boss Frank Lampard was pleased with his youngsters in defeat to Arsenal in Baltimore.
Everton lost the game after conceding twice in the opening half. And Lampard confessed the second 45 minutes was his “favourite half" after sound contributions from the homegrown trio of Lewis Warrington, Stanley Mills and Reece Welch.
The back-three system employed for the match, meanwhile, isn't necessarily Lampard's long-term ploy.
“We have to play three at the back because of the group we have on the trip," Lampard told evertontv.
“I like to be more flexible and to maybe play three in midfield, like Arsenal did tonight.
“I was relatively happy overall, we lost but Arsenal had already played two games.
“We are a bit behind in our fitness and there are a couple of things we can improve.
“The second half was my favourite half and there were some nice positives in it.
“The young players' attitude is great, Stanley Mills is on the trip because he trained so well last season and in the first week of pre-season at Finch Farm. He is here because he deserves to be and he showed that in his game.
"The confidence of Lewis Warrington to accept the ball in midfield and play and move it [was pleasing], it's simple stuff but something we've not done so well since I've been here.
“Reece looked really comfortable and Billy got a clean sheet for his half."
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