Braiden Graham gave David Moyes an undeniable reminder in Everton’s FA Youth Cup victory over Ipswich Town at the Hill Dickinson Stadium.
The young forward led a stunning comeback with a goal and assist that turned around what looked like a certain exit from the cup.
David Moyes was not spotted in the stands on Tuesday evening, but Graham made sure that his performance demanded the attention.
It is no secret that Everton have experienced issues with their two senior strikers throughout the 2025/26 campaign.
Everton did not sign a new striker over the winter window, which has opened the door slightly for the likes of Graham to show Moyes just what he can do.
Which player do you think could be next to shine in Everton’s first team? 🤩
There's some really exciting youngsters currently at Finch Farm 🔥
Everton's Braiden Graham inspecting the pitch before the match during the Premier League match between Nottingham Forest and Everton. Everton midfielder Malik Olayiwola. Justin Clarke of Everton looks on during the pre-season friendly match between Accrington Stanley and Everton.
Credit: Getty Images/Andrew Kearns – CameraSport/Kevin Hodgson/MI News/NurPhoto/Matt McNulty.
What the 18-year-old striker produced on Thursday evening should certainly have caught the attention of Moyes.
Northern Ireland v Azerbaijan - UEFA European Under-19 Championship
Photo by Domenic Aquilina/NurPhoto via Getty Images
Braiden Graham shows David Moyes what he can offer Everton
It has to be said, it was actually not one of Graham’s best performances on Thursday evening, with it taking until deep into added time for him to make an impact.
MORE EVERTON STORIES
In fact, Graham’s frustrations could be seen as he got involved in some unnecessary pushing off the ball.
What would your message to David Moyes be after another loss at home? 😫
He seemed fairly pleased with his players despite the defeat 😬
David Moyes' response on Everton's form at the Hill Dickinson Stadium.
Credit: Getty Images/Robbie Jay Barratt – AMA.
However, he stood up when he was needed and produced a finish that Everton fans have not seen from either of their strikers this season.
Simply put, Graham cannot stop scoring for Everton’s youth teams, as he netted his fourth in three FA Youth Cup appearances this season.
The numbers alone should warrant Moyes’ attention, but it is what the youngster also showed in creating opportunities for his teammates.
Graham’s mazing run into the box saw him set up Ray Robert for Everton’s third of the night, as he demonstrated his ability to turn creator.
Throughout the game, Graham demonstrated the ability to drop deep and pick out a pass.
However, he also showed that he was more than capable of getting on the ball and beating his man.
David Moyes will still hold some Braiden Graham concerns
As much as fans would love to hear about just how good Graham is, there has to be some realism shone on his performance.
There is still a lot of growing up to do for the 18-year-old who was booked for back-chatting the referee and even sparked a tussle after an off-the-ball incident.
The most glaring concern for Moyes will be his physicality. Graham very much looks like a youth player, which could see him struggle in the Premier League.
Moyes has wanted to see more from Graham over recent months and he is certainly doing all he can in terms of scoring and creating goals.
However, it is hard to imagine Moyes providing him an opportunity in the side given his handling of Tyler Dibling.
Join Our Newsletter
Receive a digest of our best Everton content each week direct to your mailbox