Harrison Armstrong amassed 17 appearances during his loan spell at Preston North End earlier this season.
Neil Mellor was not surprised Harrison Armstrong remained at Everton despite strong interest from Preston North End during the winter window.
And the former North End striker has tipped the 19-year-old to become an established Premier League talent and England international.
The young midfielder enjoyed a successful loan stint in Lancashire during the first half of the season following his deadline-day arrival from the Hill Dickinson Stadium.
Harrison Armstrong’s impressive PNE stay
Armstrong went on to amass 17 appearances for the Lilywhites and established himself as an ever-present in Paul Heckingbottom’s engine room.
However, the former Derby County man was recalled on New Year’s Day by Everton, with David Moyes in need of reinforcements in the midfield.
Indeed Mellor, who amassed 151 outings for PNE during a six-year stay at Deepdale, made it clear he didn’t expect Armstrong to return to North End - and instead fight for his place in the Premier League.
And, the 43-year-old has tipped the midfielder to go on and impress at international level during his career.
Former PNE and ex-Liverpool man’s big billing over Everton talent
Harrison Armstrong celebrates in front of the the PNE crowd at Deepdale as he levels against Wrexhamplaceholder image
Harrison Armstrong celebrates in front of the the PNE crowd at Deepdale as he levels against Wrexham | CameraSport - Rich Linley
He told the LEP: "I always thought he would be too good for the Championship.
"When I saw him I thought if he goes back to Everton, he will not be returning to the Championship this year. That is what I thought... I think he is outstanding.
“I think he will play for England. He is an unbelievable talent. There are not many players I've watched in the Championship and thought, 'Wow, they are too good for this level'.
“There was Reece James when he was at Wigan, who has gone on to have a great career with Chelsea and England. And, Harrison Armstrong is the only one I've seen since. I really think he is that sort of talent.
“Everton will benefit from having him in and around the starting XI.
“He was great for North End but I am not surprised at all he didn't return to the Championship - I don't think he will again."
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