Kevin Thelwell influence key in keeping young star at Everton after ‘incredible’ U-turn
Kevin Thelwell’s influence on Everton youngster Mathew Mallon remaining at Goodison Park has been revealed by the Liverpool Echo.
The 18-year-old right back was set to depart Goodison Park after failing to make an impact in the Toffees under-23 side in the 2021/22 campaign.
A move to Championship outfit Blackburn Rovers was mooted as the most likely destination for the youngster.
However, it has been revealed by the Liverpool Echo’s Adam Jones on 12 June, that Thelwell’s “incredible” influence was crucial in the defender deciding to remain at Goodison Park.
Jones wrote: “Thelwell’s appointment, along with sweeping changes that have been introduced across the academy in recent weeks and months, are understood to have been crucial in a changing attitude toward Mallon’s future.”
The defender is now expected to sign a two year professional contract with the option of an extra year.
Great news
It is great to see that Thelwell’s influence is already being felt at Goodison Park.
Without the influence of Thelwell, there would’ve been a good chance of the youngster leaving Goodison Park and going on to be a success elsewhere.
It is crucial that Everton don’t let any of their young gems slip through their fingers and go on to bigger and better things elsewhere.
Hearing of Thelwell having already having a positive impact is exactly what Evertonians will want to be seeing after a torrid 2022/23 campaign.
For too long there has been a focus has permanently been on the first team and making big money signings.
With the director of football already focussing on youth, there can be hope that the Toffees can start to be more street-wise when looking to recruit and develop players.
Youth players can be a great way of maintaining a sustainably run club and it is clear that Thelwell wants to get the right youth structures and people in place when it comes to the academy.
This is certainly a positive step forward for Everton.
In other Everton news, the potential departure of Richarlison means Everton must give Ellis Simms a first-team chance.
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