How Everton loanee Harrison Armstrong fared after making first Preston North End start

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Everton talent Harrison Armstrong finally made his first start for Preston North End after his deadline-day loan move.

Everton fans love a homegrown talent, and Harrison Armstrong is the most exciting prospect emerging in the ranks.

Midfielder Armstrong impressed at Derby County last season and bagged two assists in a Carabao Cup tie against Mansfield.

David Moyes still decided to strike a loan deal, as Armstrong joined Preston North End on loan for the season.

• READ MORE: What David Moyes ‘told’ Harrison Armstrong just before he left Everton for Preston North End

How Harrison Armstrong fared on his Preston North End debut

Moyes trusts his former club with Armstrong’s development, though the teenager has been forced to remain patient.

Everton fans were left baffled as Armstrong sat on PNE’s bench for his first three games, coming off the bench against Middlesbrough, Derby County and Bristol City.

Armstrong finally started his first game for PNE on Tuesday night as North End travelled to face Hull City.

Armstrong joined Ben Whiteman and Tottenham Hotspur loanee Alfie Devine in a three-man midfield, and he certainly caught the eye.

The 18-year-old produced an all-action display in the middle of the pitch and was a driving factor in PNE taking a 2-0 lead early on.

North End squandered that advantage and only drew 2-2, but Armstrong showed off his composure on the ball and read the game brilliantly out of possession.

Armstrong replaced PNE star Ali McCann in midfield and may just keep the Northern Ireland international out of the side after an impressive first start.

• READ MORE: Everton insiders convinced they have a future superstar on their hands and David Moyes agrees

Harrison Armstrong statistics in first Preston North End start

Armstrong played 81 minutes before being replaced by McCann in the North End engine room.

The Everton loanee boasted a pass accuracy of 92% – the highest percentage of any starting PNE player.

Armstrong had 41 touches of the ball and also completed two dribbles in possession.

Out of possession, Armstrong recorded two tackles, two interceptions and two clearances in a strong display.

North End fans were finally given a real glimpse of what Armstrong can offer this season, and Everton supporters should be encouraged by his impact.