Everton's pre-season raises questions about the immediate future of Harrison Armstrong. The 19-year-old midfielder is the only academy graduate currently a full-time member of David Moyes' senior squad, having made 15 appearances last season, including a loan spell at Preston North End.
Midfield competition intensifies
Armstrong faces stiff competition in central midfield following the arrival of Hayden Hackney from Middlesbrough. The 24-year-old, who was named Championship Player of the Season, has yet to play in the Premier League but is expected to compete for a starting spot. Bryan Robson, former Manchester United and England captain, praised Hackney, saying: “Hackney is a really good signing by Everton. I think he’s been Middlesbrough’s best player. I’ve watched quite a bit of Boro and every time I watched them he was nearly always the best player on the park. Everton have done a good bit of business there. I think David Moyes and Everton have struck gold to get him.”
Armstrong's pre-season display
Armstrong started the first pre-season friendly, a 4-0 win at Dundee, alongside Tim Iroegbunam in midfield, with James Garner sidelined by a groin problem. Both produced competent displays. Interest in Iroegbunam from promoted Hull City and Ipswich Town could see him leave if a suitable bid arrives, potentially opening a path for Armstrong.
Loan or stay?
While Everton are unlikely to sell Armstrong permanently, interest in a loan move is strong from clubs at home and abroad. The England Under-19 international impressed during his first-half loan at Preston last season, and Moyes considered recalling him in January. After returning, Armstrong started five consecutive games, including a standout performance in a win at Aston Villa, but later featured mainly from the bench. The club must decide before the transfer window closes on September 1 whether a loan would better serve his development if he is not a regular starter.
