Everton loanee Harrison Armstrong shone again for Preston North End on Friday, but Paul Heckingbottom is already noting improvements he can make.
A huge decision rested on David Moyes’ shoulders over the summer as to whether he should keep Armstrong on Merseyside or loan him out.
On the back of his impressive stint at Pride Park last season, the 18-year-old made the move to Preston for the season.
Everton will consider recalling Armstrong in January as they prepare for the loss of Idrissa Gana Gueye to the Africa Cup of Nations.
The youngster is certainly showcasing his talent again in the Championship for the Lilywhites and did so on Friday night.
Preston fans were wowed by Armstrong’s display against Birmingham City, with the midfielder backing that up with another strong showing against Sheffield United.
Preston North End v Sheffield United - Sky Bet Championship
Photo by Alex Dodd – CameraSport via Getty Images
Paul Heckingbottom wants two changes from Everton’s Harrison Armstrong
Even Preston’s players have been taken aback by Armstrong’s impact in such a short space of time at Deepdale.
The youngster’s quality is there for all to see and he was playing on national television on Friday night as Preston pulled off a stunning comeback to take the points.
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Speaking to The Athletic, Heckingbottom waxed lyrical about Armstrong’s showing, but has already noted some areas for improvement.
“I really like Harrison. I think he can get better still. As I’ve seen him play more, there’s one or two things I want to challenge him on but I really like how he plays, what he’s like as a lad,” said the Preston boss.
“He’s 18 and has got a really good future because he’s already a very good player at this level, but I can see where he can improve further.”
Moyes was in the stands to watch Armstrong against Birmingham earlier in the week, but the 62-year-old may have been watching from his sofa on Friday evening.
Heckingbottom has praised Armstrong regularly since the move in September in what is proving to be another solid loan for the midfielder.
Harrison Armstrong dominates in Preston win over Sheffield United
He may only be 18 years of age, but Armstrong is showing quality beyond his years for Preston in the early stages of this season.
Armstrong wanted to impress Moyes over the summer and earn himself a spot in the Everton first team.
Patience will be needed from the midfielder, but performances like Friday night will be noted by Moyes and the Everton coaches.
90 minutes played
55 touches
2/2 successful dribbles
1x was fouled
2/3 tackles won
6/8 ground duels won
5 recoveries
With Merlin Rohl wowing Moyes in Everton training, a return in January may not be necessary for the youngster.
Keeping the minutes rolling for Armstrong in Lancashire could be the best option for his development.