David Moyes always keeps a close eye on Preston North End, and he will certainly have loved Harrison Armstrong’s display on Friday night.
Now back as Everton boss, David Moyes is looking to recapture the buzz from his first spell in charge.
Everton raided Preston North End to land Moyes in 2002, a move which really paid dividends.
The Scot may have left PNE more than 20 years ago, but he still lives locally and takes a keen interest in North End’s fortunes.
Moyes even struck a deal with PNE on deadline day, sending teenager Harrison Armstrong on loan to the Lilywhites.
Preston North End v Sheffield United - Sky Bet Championship
Photo by Alex Dodd – CameraSport via Getty Images
David Moyes should be impressed with Harrison Armstrong’s PNE display
Moyes visited Deepdale to watch Armstrong in action against Birmingham City last week, as PNE fell to a 1-0 defeat.
Just three days later, Armstrong lined up against Sheffield United – and it looked like turning into a disastrous night.
PNE were 2-0 down inside 16 minutes, and Armstrong endured one of his shakiest periods as a North End player.
MORE EVERTON STORIES
Armstrong was lucky not to give away a third goal as he almost lost possession on the edge of his own box, and he was often caught too high up the pitch.
North End rallied, sparked by former Everton talent Lewis Dobbin pulling one back just before half-time.
A Japhet Tanganga own goal and a Daniel Jebbison header turned the game on its head, handing PNE a brilliant 3-2 comeback win.
Moyes will be pleased for North End, but he should be delighted with Armstrong.
The Everton loanee was absolutely sensational in the second half and ran the show in PNE’s engine room.
Armstrong was everywhere, flying into tackles and drifting away from Sheffield United midfielders with ease.
What could have been a torrid night ended up being the showcase of Armstrong’s all-round quality in the middle of the pitch.
Loans are rarely plain sailing, and players have to go through ups and downs to develop for Premier League action.
This may have only been one game, but Armstrong could have drowned after a shaky first-half performance.
Instead, Armstrong came out and dominated in the second half, proving to Moyes that he has the mentality to become a star.
Preston North End hail Harrison Armstrong
Armstrong was named PNE’s Man of the Match against Sheffield United, as his second-half show was deservedly recognised.
North End posted on X about Armstrong winning the award, praising him for a ‘midfielder masterclass’.
That certainly describes Armstrong’s display as he played a key role in North End’s rousing fightback.
The 18-year-old is playing far beyond his years and Moyes should be ecstatic with his development and performances this season, especially when the going gets tough.