Fraser Barnsley has admitted he is really excited to work with Jordan Pickford.
Speaking to evertontv following his move to the U-21 side, the goalkeeper shared his excitement at learning from the current Toffees no.1.
Everton confirmed the arrival of Barnsley from Oxford United on Tuesday, with the youngster signing a two-year contract after linking up with the U-21s.
The 18-year-old came up through the ranks of Oxford’s academy and enjoyed an impressive run in the FA Youth Cup last season, helping his side reach the quarter-finals. Barnsley has also enjoyed loan spells at Welling United and Evesham United.
Everton’s lack of finances have made their younger players even more important and Barnsley will be hoping to make his way up to the first team, which certainly helps when he can be guided by Pickford.
Speaking on the England international, Barnsley said:
MORE EVERTON STORIES
“I’ll try to soak up as much as I can. Pickford is an amazing goalkeeper with an amazing pedigree.
“With all the Everton goalkeepers at senior level, I’ll try to take in as much information, and utilise them as much as possible to get as far as I can.
“I’m really proud and happy to be here and I can’t wait to get started.”
Can Fraser Barnsley improve Everton academy’s lack of recent success?
Everton haven’t had much luck with their academy in recent years, with Tom Davies the latest graduate to leave the club.
Sean Dyche has handed opportunities to a number of youngsters already this season, with Lewis Dobbin already making his mark. However, there is a concern that their development is being restricted if some of them are only finding their way into the match-day squad because of the lack of squad depth.
Barnsley will be hoping that he can impress the club over the next few years as he looks to become the next Pickford.