David Moyes has thrown the gauntlet down for Harrison Armstrong at Everton.
It has become obvious over recent weeks that Armstrong was not being favoured by the Everton boss.
In the recent games against Brentford and Liverpool, the 19-year-old was not included in the squad and could be seen watching from the stands.
What should be next for this young man over the summer? 🫣
Failed to even make the squad in recent weeks under Moyes… 🙄
Harrison Armstrong of Everton during the Premier League match between Fulham and Everton.
Credit: Getty Images/Izzy Poles – AMA
Having been dragged from his loan stint with Preston North End, Moyes now wants to see more from the Finch Farm graduate.
Everton v Bournemouth - Premier League
Photo by James Gill – Danehouse/Getty Images
David Moyes does not hold back with Harrison Armstrong warning
Moyes has not included Armstrong in Everton’s squad since the international break.
With no injury to note, it was clear that the Everton academy graduate had fallen in Moyes’ pecking order.
“We’ve got players fit now. I always said that we needed him badly, and he played really well for us,” said Moyes on Friday.
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David Moyes, head coach of Everton, during the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Everton at St James' Park.
Credit: Getty Images/James Gill – Danehouse
“He needs to keep his work up at the moment. He’s just had a little bit of a dip, and I can see that from him, but it is probably expected from a boy who has played a long part of the season. He’s fit in training now.”
Moyes wants more local Everton academy graduates impacting the senior side, of which Armstrong appeared to be the obvious candidate.
The midfielder has now impressed during multiple loan stints away from Merseyside, but has recently fallen behind in the manager’s selection process.
What next for Harrison Armstrong at Everton?
Clearly, Moyes remains a big fan of Armstrong. He has, however, made it clear what he expects from the midfielder.
With Merlin Rohl and Tim Iroegbunam currently ahead of him in the pecking order, it leaves an incredibly fierce competition for the two starting spots.
Adding to this is the belief that Everton want to sign another midfielder in the summer, making things look really tough for Armstrong
Perhaps another loan stint for the 19-year-old could be on the cards, but he will want to play first team football next season.
There appears to be another long road ahead of the youngster.
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