Everton have a rich history of producing and nurturing youth talent, but in recent years, the latter has been in short supply.
However, selling stars like Anthony Gordon and Ellis Simms has proven supremely profitable of late, but fans would definitely like to see some of the future of the Toffees star on the pitch for them rather than see them shine elsewhere.
With Kevin Thelwell having forged a somewhat more sustainable future for the club, that could be a possibility in the very near future, and with one 21-year-old in particular, they have made great strides…
Sean Dyche raves over Tim Iroegbunam
Speaking to Everton’s official X account immediately after the defeat, Sean Dyche was frank in his assessment of the result.
A tough one to deal with, the former Burnley boss would go out of his way to offer one man particular praise, claiming: ’I must say I thought Tim was terrific. He’s had such a strong pre-season, he’s been really, really impressive. To watch him enjoy his football, work hard, break the play and can play as well, so I must give him a special mention.
‘He’s done really really well, and he’s kept going there today.’
Then asked more specifically on Tim Iroegbunam, Dyche claimed: ‘One of the keys is he has had Premier League experience and he’s had experience in the Championship, he gets the physicality of it, the pace of it, the feel of it and that’s shown during pre-season.
‘But he’s done very well, and the other players are learning that, players who haven’t quite played there.’
Everton’s only ray of hope vs Brighton
In what was an otherwise dull afternoon, with Goodison Park swiftly emptying ahead of full-time, Iroegbunam stood out again.
He has impressed all pre-season, as Dyche claimed, but there were a few reservations over his ability to instantly translate his form into the Premier League.
But instantly it became clear that any doubts were unfounded.
Iroegbunam was by far the most composed player in royal blue that Saturday afternoon, accepting the ball with ease and winning possession back relentlessly.
Throwing himself into every tackle and tracking back, it was really refreshing to see a midfielder dominate as the 21-year-old did.
As James Tarkowski and Michael Keane faltered at the back, and Calvert-Lewin continued to be profligate up front, Iroegbunam was solid and unflappable all game, even if he tired as the match went on.
He is certain to only improve as the season goes on, and hopefully his teammates can start to match his level too.
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