Everton’s U21s showcased an unusual corner tactic, Shea Pita’s promising development and Braiden Graham’s best position in their loss to Sunderland on Friday.
Another frustrating evening for Paul Tait at Walton Hall Park, but his side did show plenty to be excited about, but also a lot that needs to improve.
It must be remembered that Everton U21s are currently missing a double-digit number of players who are out on loan.
Tait made tactical changes that benefitted Braiden Graham during the second half of the game against Sunderland.
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However, the Young Blues just could not find that finishing touch to get themselves back level on the scoresheet.
Despite the loss, here are three things Everton News picked up on that you should know following the loss at Walton Hall Park.
Bradford City v Everton U21 - Vertu Trophy
Photo by George Wood/Getty Images
Everton centre-back Aled Thomas taking corners
Set pieces have become such a huge part of the modern game and Tait incredibly has his left-footed centre-back, Aled Thomas, taking corners.
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It is usually a centre-back’s job to provide the aerial presence inside the box from corners and other set pieces.
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Everton striker Braiden Graham. Everton manager David Moyes.
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However, the 19-year-old Welshman has earned the right to take corners from the right side having demonstrated his high-level of delivery.
Thomas also showcased his wand of a left foot during the game by spraying some long-range passes to Kingsford Boakye on the right-wing.
It was just a shame the centre-back gave away the penalty in the first half.
Having scored for Keith Southern’s U18s at the Hill Dickinson Stadium last week, Shea Pita has earned two call-ups to the U21s this week.
Having come on as a substitute in both of the games against Burnley and Sunderland, the 16-year-old looks more than ready to give U21s football a real go.
Pita has really impressed for Everton’s U18s this season, with two goals in his three appearances in the FA Youth Cup.
Tait will likely offer Pita a gradual transition into the U21s, but the Welshman has looked confident in the two appearances he’s made this week for the Young Blues.
Patience is needed with Braiden Graham before senior call-up
There are many Everton fans wanting David Moyes to call-up Braiden Graham having seen some of the goals he’s scored of late.
Graham’s ability cannot be denied as the 18-year-old looks like a natural finisher.
However, it has been made apparent over the last eight days that the Northern Irishman still has a lot to work on.
For most of the game, Graham was fairly ineffective when playing as the lone striker; it was not until he moved to the left wing that Tait saw the best of him.
Considering Tait’s lack of options available, it seems unlikely Graham will be promoted this season to join Moyes’ first team.
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