David Moyes is confident Everton are no longer in a position where they have to sell their best young players.
Over the past decade, Everton have seen several youngsters leave Goodison Park before realising their potential.
The likes of Francis Jeffers, Michael Ball and Wayne Rooney all left the Merseyside club before turning 22-years-old.
Another player to fall into that category is Richard Dunne, who was sold to Manchester City for £3million six years ago.
Everton come up against Dunne on New Year's Day, but Moyes feels the situation has changed since the Republic of Ireland defender's departure.
"Richard Dunne is a very good player and one who obviously came through the ranks at Everton, but it's changed now," said Moyes.
"Any good boys we've got we like to keep hold of and try to progress them.
"I think there were times when Everton maybe had to sell some of their players.
"That isn't the case now, thank goodness, but Dunne has proved to be a good buy for Manchester City."
Victor Anichebe and James Vaughan are at the forefront of the current batch of youngsters in the first-team squad and Moyes has offered words of encouragement to the strike duo.
He added: "Victor is playing in front of some experienced players and James Vaughan isn't too far behind as well, so we're trying to nurture them along and get them through into the first team.
"If they keep knocking on the door then they will get there."