The large number of absences at Everton has seen some of the academy prospects handed an opportunity in the matchday squad.
Since returning to Merseyside, David Moyes has not exactly been able to utilise the youngsters at his disposal.
Everton were in the midst of a relegation battle when the 62-year-old arrived 12 months ago and he now finds himself with a host of new players.
The one example has been Harrison Armstrong, who has really impressed Moyes following his loan recall from Preston North End.
However, aside from the midfielder, there have been very few opportunities for the academy prospects.
There is, however, one player who is firmly knocking on Moyes’ door on the back of the Scot’s comments made on Friday.
What David Moyes said about Everton prospect Braiden Graham
Everton know they have a real talent in Braiden Graham as he continues to shine for the U21s side.
Bridging the gap between the youth level and the first team will take some doing, though.
Speaking to the media on Friday, Moyes was asked just how close Graham is to making an appearance in the senior side.
What more does Braiden Graham need to do to earn Moyes’ trust? 🌟
“I think Braiden is doing well. It’s probably at the moment that we need him to build up his physicality and his all-round speed,” said Moyes.
“We’re pleased that we’re getting some of the young boys a chance to be around it. We’ll see how they continue.”
Earlier in the week, Graham wowed the Everton coaches during a first-team training session at Finch Farm.
The 18-year-old striker was regularly finding the back of the net against Mark Travers and even turning creator with some impressive through balls.
On Friday evening, the youngster hit back at Moyes’ comments in the only way he knows how to.
Braiden Graham hits back at David Moyes in perfect style
Graham was in action on Friday for Everton’s U18s in the FA Youth Cup against West Ham United.
The Northern Irishman was able to find the back of the net again during normal time and then slotted home his penalty in the shootout triumph.
Who are you picking to start against Villa if you were David Moyes? 🤨
💡Or would you start both up front?
On the back of Everton’s dismal shootout against Sunderland last weekend, the youngsters really showed them how to do it.
Moyes has previously suggested Graham is not close to the first team, but recent months have clearly seen him move closer.
The 18-year-old will surely feel that there could be an opportunity for him given the struggles being experienced by Thierno Barry and Beto.
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