David Moyes forced into important Everton decision he really didn’t want to make

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Everton had a pretty quiet winter transfer window but they did agree a late deal to sign Carlos Alacaraz from Flamengo.

The Toffees were in the market for a striker but ultimately, they didn’t have the required funds due to PSR restrictions.

Everton did look at Hamza Igamane, but Rangers wouldn’t sanction his sale midseason for any less than £25m.

There was talk of Tom Fellows to Goodison Park after a £10m bid was lodged, however, West Bromwich Albion knocked back the approach.

On the outgoing front, Everton offloaded just one player and it was a decision that was really difficult for David Moyes to make.

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David Moyes hesitant to send Harrison Armstrong to Derby County

Everton sent Harrison Armstrong on loan to Derby just before the transfer window slammed shut on Monday.

The talented 18-year-old had been on the fringes of the first-team this season after impressing with the reserve side and it seemed he was close to making a breakthrough.

According to the Liverpool Echo journalist Joe Thomas, who spoke to the Derby Telegraph, Harrison Armstrong had already caught the eye of Moyes.

It’s understood the Scotsman was rather hesitant to send him out on loan but after the addition of Alcaraz, the club decided to make the tough decision to allow him to leave for more regular football.

The 4-0 result against Leicester also played a factor in the decision, with relegation now looking pretty unlikely.

What Moyes told Armstrong before he left for Derby

Before making the switch to the East Midlands, Moyes told Armstrong to ‘go and enjoy yourself’ as he joins a side in a relegation dogfight.

It certainly won’t be an easy environment to settle into, with Derby fans keen for manager Paul Warne to leave, but it’s one that’ll provide the youngster with invaluable experience.

The learning Armstrong can take from this loan is massive and ultimately, it’s a chance to test himself in one of the toughest divisions outside of the Premier League.

Moyes and Everton chiefs will be keeping close tabs on his development at Pride Park.