A lot of the talk from Everton’s academy is focusing on the potential of Braiden Graham, but Demi Akarakiri also deserves a lot of credit for his U21s displays.
Paul Tait’s side were back in Premier League 2 action on Friday after what has been a frustrating run of results for the Young Blues at Finch Farm.
Everton’s U21s have been pulled apart by players being sent out on loan for a taste of men’s football, but Graham and Akarakiri have continued to impress on Merseyside.
Graham is really impressing his Everton coaches, but it was Akarakiri to get on the scoresheet on Friday as his fine run continued.
Tottenham Hotspur v Everton - Premier League 2
Photo by Kevin Hodgson/MI News/NurPhoto via Getty Images
Everton must secure Demi Akarakiri to a professional contract
Having signed from Arsenal back in 2024, the 17-year-old is yet to ink his first professional contract at Everton.
Akarakiri is showing his potential at Everton, having earned a promotion to the U21s side
Friday’s opener against Southampton marked the midfielder’s first of the season for Tait’s U21s, with six Premier League 2 appearances now to his name.
It must be remembered that Akarakiri is a year younger than Graham, who many fans are suggesting deserves an opportunity in the first team.
MORE EVERTON STORIES
Harrison Armstrong has impressed David Moyes by bridging the gap between the academy and the senior team for the first time since the Scot’s return.
Graham’s struggles are there for all to see when it comes to his physicality, but Akarakiri is already showing the potential of competing at a higher level.
However, Everton cannot consider the player’s next steps until they secure him down to a new contract.
What lies next for Demi Akarakiri at Everton
Simply put, a new contract has to be in the works for Akarakiri, who is now of age to sign his first professional contract.
Everton recently secured George Pickford to a new deal before sending him out on loan to Southport.
This could well be the vision for the midfielder, with Armstrong setting the example of how minutes in the men’s game can have a big impact on a player’s development.
Akarakiri is a talent that Everton need to secure as he continues to shine within their youth ranks.
Dean Rastrick is expected to be appointed as Everton’s academy manager and he will surely have a handle on situations like this going forward.
Join Our Newsletter
Receive a digest of our best Everton content each week direct to your mailbox