Everton saw a number of players leave on the final day of the summer transfer window.
David Moyes has seen a major revamp of his squad this summer, with player turnover huge on Merseyside.
So far so good for Everton, though. From the Toffees’ opening three games in the Premier League, they have taken an impressive six points.
Bigger challenges await Everton this season, but the early signs of the new signings settling in are extremely positive.
On deadline day, Harrison Armstrong departed Everton for Preston North End on a season-long loan.
There were a lot of questions being asked whether Armstrong would remain at Everton, but the arrival of Merlin Rohl sealed his fate.
Just days later, the 18-year-old ticked off a major milestone in his career.
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Photo by PAUL ELLIS/AFP via Getty Images
Everton prospect Harrison Armstrong captains England U19s
Preston’s manager was worried about signing Armstrong, as he believed Everton may have changed their minds late on.
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But the decision was made to find Armstrong some regular minutes in the Championship.
On Wednesday, the 18-year-old midfielder captained England’s U19s in their latest victory against Ukraine.
👏 Great to see Harrison Armstrong (on loan at Preston North End) captain England Men’s Under-19s in their 2-0 victory over Ukraine at the Pinatar Arena in Spain today.
Goalkeeper Douglass Lukjanciks was also an unused substitute for the contest. pic.twitter.com/zR1PlUnCly
— Everton Academy (@EvertonAcademy) September 3, 2025
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A major milestone ticked off for the youngster, who is already showing he could become a real talent for the Toffees.
Seamus Coleman had praised Armstrong before he departed for Preston, with the 18-year-old playing regularly over the summer for the Toffees.
Moyes clearly felt that the midfielder needed to depart Merseyside this summer if he was going to continue his development.
But he has just provided anyone who needed it that little reminder that he could become a real star for Everton in the future.
Harrison Armstrong will shine in the Championship
Following his time with Derby County, there will be high expectations for Armstrong to hit the ground running.
Derby players nicknamed Armstrong ‘Bruce Wayne’ after his excellent loan spell at Pride Park.
It was only a short-term loan deal that saw Armstrong play for Derby last season. Now, he will have the opportunity to test himself over a full campaign.
Everton have bolstered their squad this summer, but there will be a keen eye on what Armstrong does for Preston in the second-tier.
After all, Moyes watched Armstrong for Derby from the stands, and he will be eager to see the midfielder continue his growth.