Everton have developed a number of top talents from their Finch Farm academy.
Jarrad Branthwaite is currently flying that flag, having developed with the under-21s following his £1m transfer from Carlisle.
Many have been sold for big profits, with the likes of Tom Cannon and Ellis Simms generating millions from sales.
However, there is one former academy star who Everton may be regretting letting go, and he actually left on a free transfer.
The talented playmaker is flourishing in the Championship and can get even better, says his manager.
Former Everton youngster Isaac Price flourishing at West Brom
Isaac Price was let go by Everton during the summer of 2023, with Belgium outfit Standard Liege signing him on a free.
Earlier this year, back in January, Price returned to England in a £2.5m deal, joining Championship promotion hopefuls West Bromwich Albion.
The 21-year-old has already established himself as a fan favourite in the West Midlands and has netted three goals in four league appearances this term.
Manager Ryan Mason reckons Price has even more ‘growth’ in him, suggesting the Toffees have made a big error.
“He has scored goals this season and that is something we need to work on, there is room to grow, he still has so much growth in him,” Mason told the Express and Star.
“He is not a prolific goalscorer in men’s football, he has started well but he is just at the start of his career and we have to push him.”
Frank Lampard was a big fan of Isaac Price
Former Everton manager Frank Lampard was a big fan of Price and actually gave him his Premier League debut.
“Isaac Price I’ve been really, really impressed with,” Lampard said back in April 2022. “In terms of him as a midfield player, he’s got everything.
“There’s a potential that Isaac will be in the travelling squad and could be on the bench. He absolutely deserves it.”
Clearly, the playmaker is beginning to fulfil that potential and it wouldn’t at all be surprising to see him back in the Premier League soon.
Perhaps that’ll be with West Brom, who are currently second in the table.
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