The midfielder, a product of Everton's youth academy, was used sparingly last season despite attracting praise for some of his solid displays when on the pitch.

Moyes believes the 18-year-old is ready to play a more prominent role as the Toffees look to improve on last season's fifth place finish in the Barclays Premier League.

"We're going to keep trying to bring him on and there have been some periods of the season where he's been very good and some periods where you can see he's still a boy," said the Scot.

"He has only just turned 18. It's going to take experience and time but he has undoubtedly got a good future ahead of him. You can see his ability and we are keen to push him on.

"Next year instead of playing five, six or eight games it might be up to 18 or 20 games depending on how his improvement is. He has got great pace and athleticism."

Rodwell, who is currently away with England at the European Under-21 Championships, signed a new five-year contract at Goodison Park in February.