Teenager Halid Djankpata spotted in Everton training ahead of Southampton
Halid Djankpata has been spotted in Everton training during the international break ahead of the 1 October Premier League clash against Southampton.
In pictures shared from the Liverpool Echo at Finch Farm, the 17-year-old midfielder was seen with a group of younger players as well as the first-team players.
Along with him, Katia Kouyate (19); Mathew Mallon (18); Joe Anderson (21); Kyle John (21) and Stanley Mills (18) were also seen in training.
Close to the first team?
Djankpata is a goal-scoring midfielder who enjoys venturing forward and linking with the attacking players.
He’s had injury concerns in the past, but they now seem to be behind him and he’s continuing to impress for the under-18s.
There’s a reason why he caught Frank Lampard’s eye and training with the first team is undoubtedly going to be a big deal for him.
We would love to see a few of these aforementioned youngsters making the first team and making their senior debut at some point during the season.
The Carabao Cup and FA Cup represent good opportunities for youngsters to feature and we would want to see more of Djankpata then.
It would be special if he makes his debut before he turns 18 and the club’s website has labelled him as a “tenacious” midfielder who looks up to Paul Pogba.