Everton new stadium: First-team players visit site after major developments

Excitement continues to build about Everton's new stadium. Sean Dyche and the first-team squad were able to get a taste of that on Thursday, as they visited the site at Bramley-Moore dock.

The Blues are about to begin what will be their final season at Goodison Park, with this Saturday's friendly against Roma the pre-cursor to the opening game of the Premier League season against Brighton & Hove Albion.

Everton's departure from their home for 132 years will spark a lot of emotions, although Dyche will be desperate to harness that energy to help the team on the pitch.

Speaking on the visit, the Blues boss gave his verdict on the recent developments put in place at the new stadium site and how seeing the building come to life could impact the players.

"Yeah, big progress, last time I came here it was more or less a shell everywhere," said Dyche. "So now to see the seats in, the glass in, the changing areas and the design you're seeing it come to life somewhat. It's moved on magnificently. I think it will be an amazing place.

"It was just a case of waiting for the right time really (to visit) and we thought before the season kicks off, get them down now. The noise around it will build obviously until they finally get the keys. But it's good to see for the players what's to come next and what is part of Everton's future."

Dyche was also asked if the stadium can offer some sort of incentive going forward given the challenges both he and the team have faced in the past few seasons.

"A lot of work has been done by many and I don't just mean on site," Dyche continued. "We've been trying to balance out the club after so many years with hard work, including the players.

"They have had challenges and there will be more in the immediacy, but there is a long-term future in place."

Images were released this week of the pitch progression at the new stadium, which when finished will leave Everton with a state-of-the-art playing surface.

The club also confirmed a landmark partnership with industry giant Aramark, which should reduce queues for food and drink at half time, as well creating 1,200 jobs at the venue.