Ashley Cole has described what it has been like to work with Leighton Baines at Everton in recent weeks.
The former England international was confirmed as part of the Blues backroom team shortly after the arrival of Frank Lampard as manager last month.
Baines, meanwhile, retired from football in 2020 and was confirmed as a development coach at Everton just a few months later - working primarily with the youth set-up but having the flexibility to move between sides.
Recently, the former defender has often been seen working with Paul Tait's under-18s - including their recent FA Youth Cup run.
READ MORE: Frank Lampard is about to face ultimate test of new Everton style
READ MORE: Everton to offer Vitalii Mykolenko support following Ukraine invasion
Cole has said he remained friends with Baines following their time playing together with England and he sees his former international teammate around Finch Farm a lot.
The new coach also explained the importance of having his voice around the setup with the first team as well as his usual role with the academy squads.
Cole told Everton TV: "I see him [Baines] a lot!
"He's been great, again he's another insight we can grab at times and find out what's most important to these players. He's been here a long time, played with a lot of these players.
"I was good friends with him on the international stage with England, and I've got nothing but massive respect for him.
"Frank has already said he's always open for Leighton to come and watch training and get involved. It's not about any egos, we're all here for one mission - to get Everton out of the spot we're in.
"Getting world class players is what we need and we're open to that for sure."
