Everton has announced its new intake of Under-18s scholars for the upcoming season, featuring 11 recruits including a marquee signing and a forward who made headlines last season. The cohort, led by new U18s head coach Matthew Taylor, includes England and Poland youth international Jonathan Nsangou and Kai Hutchison, a 16-year-old forward signed from Dundee United.
Jonathan Nsangou: A Rising Star
Jonathan Nsangou, who made his debut for Everton's Under-21s at age 15 last season, is among the most notable additions. The teenager also scored a goal from the halfway line for England's U16s in the Cup of Rhodes Knights in Greece. He came off the bench during a thrilling home game against Aston Villa at Finch Farm. Nsangou, who is eligible for both England and Poland, will lead the line for the U18s.
Kai Hutchison: Marquee Signing from Dundee United
Kai Hutchison, a 16-year-old forward, turned down a professional deal at Dundee United to join Everton after attracting interest from several English clubs. He has one goal in five appearances for Scotland Under-15s and represented Dundee United's B side twice last season. Hutchison also trained with the first team and traveled with the senior squad to a game against Hibernian.
Other New Scholars and Academy Products
Left back Tom McDermott has been signed from Chelsea. The other scholars include right back Divine Madueke (from Tottenham Hotspur last summer), goalkeeper Ted Wilcox, midfielders Rodney Aduda, Harry Brookes, Lucas Moogan, Levi Okorie, and Daff Pemberton—all products of Everton's academy. Defender Harlow McEveley, whose father Jay McEveley rose through Finch Farm, is the most experienced, having made 23 appearances for the U18s last season. McEveley is entering his 13th year with Everton.
Rocco Lambert Signs First Professional Deal
Defender Rocco Lambert, who played for the U18s last season, has signed his first professional contract with Everton and will step up to the U21s. The 17-year-old said: “It's a moment I've dreamed of since I was a kid. For me and everyone around me – my family, friends – we’re all buzzing. They're proud of me and I'm proud of myself. I've had ups and downs, I've had injuries as well, but (I'm) just trying to overcome that. I've enjoyed my time at Everton a lot.”
