Everton academy prospect Joel Catesby has made his long-awaited return from a lengthy injury issue.
Paul Tait’s U21s side were in action on Friday afternoon against Birmingham City, which saw Catesby named in the starting XI.
The 19-year-old winger has been out of action since October after suffering a broken leg during an Everton U21 game in the EFL Trophy.
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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.
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Everton secured a 1-1 draw in the Premier League 2 thanks to a last-minute equaliser from defender Luca Davis.
Bradford City v Everton U21 - Vertu Trophy
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Everton’s Joel Catesby makes long-awaited return from injury
David Moyes called Catesby up to senior Everton training last week during the international break at Finch Farm.
Having started the game, Catesby’s return was carefully assessed as he only played the opening 45 minutes.
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Everton striker Braiden Graham. Everton manager David Moyes.
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The display in Birmingham takes Catesby’s minutes in the Premier League 2 to just under 300 for the 2025/26 season.
In those minutes, Catesby has returned two assists for the Young Blues, but the game on Friday was about easing him back into action.
Braiden Graham drops to Everton U21s bench
Everton starlet Braiden Graham did not even start the game on Friday against Birmingham.
However, the Northern Irishman did come on at half-time for Catesby.
Graham is expected to benefit from Dean Rastrick’s appointment over recent days as Everton’s new academy director.
It must be noted that Graham was spotted among Moyes’ senior training session in images shared on Friday.
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