David Moyes
As Everton embarks on a transformative pre-season, young talent Harrison Armstrong finds himself at a pivotal juncture in his career. With the club undergoing significant changes, including a potential influx of new players, Armstrong’s future at Goodison Park remains uncertain. The club must decide whether to keep the promising midfielder in their ranks or send him out on loan for further development.
David Moyes said: “I remember Leon Osman went out on loan to Carlisle and Derby and Harrison has now gone to Derby. Leon Osman came back from Derby, ready to get in the first team. He’d been a talented young player, I remember watching him in the games when he played up front quite often at that time. It’s just the start for him and hope that he gets the best part of 10, 12 games then hopefully by the summer, we’ll see how he’s looking then.”
Richard Cusack said: “Don’t underestimate the calibre of player Armstrong is going up against in the second tier. He’s been playing a midfield three next to Ebou Adams, Derby’s captain and an experienced campaigner, and 22-year-old Liam Thompson. Adams has been better in a Derby shirt when laying the ball off to playmakers, while Thompson can do a bit of both. Armstrong, though, is pure class and showed that with his outrageous side-foot volley against Plymouth. He wants to play forward when he can – and that is why [John] Eustace is a massive fan of his.”
David Moyes said: “He’s back a different player because he’s probably got Championship games under his belt for a young boy, which is very good. We’ve just got to make sure he gets some holiday time off, but also keep him ready for that as well. We will involve him in the Summer Series and involve him in the pre-season. He will get an opportunity.”
Harrison Armstrong said: “It’s a great club, a great fanbase. The staff and players are great. I think there’s talks to be had. I think it’s something a young player wants to be part of. And yes, you want to be a part of it.”
Armstrong’s loan spell at Derby County proved to be a fruitful experience, exceeding expectations with 15 appearances and playing a key role in helping the team avoid relegation. His performances have caught the attention of Derby’s new manager, John Eustace, who is reportedly a fan of Armstrong’s forward-thinking playstyle. This has left Everton with a challenging decision: to retain Armstrong for sporadic first-team opportunities or to loan him out again for consistent playing time.
The club’s pre-season will be crucial for Armstrong, as Everton evaluates his potential role in the squad amidst a period of significant transformation. With new ownership and a new stadium on the horizon, Armstrong’s desire to be part of Everton’s new era is clear. As the club navigates these changes, the decision regarding Armstrong’s future will be pivotal in shaping both his career and Everton’s squad dynamics.
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