Everton may already have a perfect Dominic Calvert-Lewin heir, it’s not Lewis Dobbin

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Everton’s history of youth production has seen them save millions over the years, plugging gaps with the immense talent nurtured at Finch Farm.

It has also proven a profitable venture when selling on those stars too, with Anthony Gordon the latest export to command a hefty fee.

However, on Sunday a new star was potentially born, as Lewis Dobbin thundered home a left-footed finish to score his first-ever Premier League goal and secure a 2-0 home win over Chelsea.

Goodison Park was sent into raptures, playing witness to the potential inception of their latest young talent who has since drawn widespread praise.

And yet, despite having operated as a striker during the early stages of his development in the academy, he is unlikely to be the natural heir to Dominic Calvert-Lewin. Especially in Sean Dyche’s current system, which relies on immense physicality for the striker role. The 20-year-old stands at just 5 foot 9, and has largely operated as a winger of late.

Therefore, it must have been pleasing to also see Martin Sherif shine in midweek too, offering a glimpse of another gem who could be the next to burst onto the scene at Everton.

Who is Martin Sherif?

Signing his first professional contract with the club in the summer marked a huge show of faith for the 17-year-old, who has been scoring for fun at the youth level for many years now.

The marksman has been with the Toffees since the age of 13, and enjoyed a standout year last season, scoring 14 and assisting four in just 21 U18s Premier League matches.

Now seemingly making the steady step up to U21s football, perhaps with a loan spell like Dobbin enjoyed he could return ready to thrive in senior football.

After all, he clearly knows where the back of the net is, having been described as a ‘dynamic Dutch striker’ with ‘excellent finishing ability’ by Everton’s official website. Yesterday showcased this, as he bagged a brace to send his side into the next round of the FA Youth Cup.

The 6 foot attacker is making steady strides towards earning that first-team emergence, just as Dobbin did on Sunday.

With Dyche having disproved the notion that he does not put his trust in youth already this season, with Jarrad Branthwaite as a sparkling example, Sherif should feel confident that the continuation of his form will eventually merit the progression he craves.

Given his pace, power, incredible stature and cultured finishing ability, there are few forwards within Everton as likely to one day usurp Calvert-Lewin than him.