Everton gem Harrison Armstong ‘devastated’ as Derby County bombshell emerges
Harrison Armstrong is one of the most promising youngsters ready to come through the Everton academy.
The 18-year-old, while he has just six first-team appearances to his name since August 2024, has proven himself to the Goodison Park army, with many crying for his promotion to the senior squad.
He could have the opportunity to learn from the likes of Idrissa Gana Gueye, Abdoulaye Doucoure and James Garner, all of whom can have a key impact going forward as well as battling in midfield.
However, David Moyes clearly needs more convincing after the youngster was sent out on loan to Championship strugglers Derby County on the final day of the winter transfer window.
News emerging from Pride Park may have just thrown a spanner in the works for Armstrong, though.
Paul Warne sacked as Derby County manager
The Rams announced on Friday [7 February] that Warne has been relieved of his duties by the Rams, with the team currently sitting 22nd in the Championship, two points from safety.
It really comes as no shock to those at Pride Park, but with Armstrong only just arriving at the East Midlands club, he will be devastated to see a massive change made so early in the spell.
The 51-year-old is unlikely to have played a major role in the midfielder’s move to the Championship side, but he will have been hoping to hit the ground running. This will be far from helpful.
Harrison Armstrong to thrive under David Moyes at Everton
Armstrong certainly has the potential to thrive once the Toffees move into the Bramley-Moore Dock Stadium ahead of the 2025/26 campaign, but experience is vital.
He has yet to experience senior football on a consistent basis, only being given a handful of opportunities by Sean Dyche, and that is why he was sent out on loan this month.
However, the sacking of Warne could be a huge setback to his development. Time will only tell, once the Rams appoint a new manager and the new team is picked.
The staff at Goodison Park will be keeping a close eye on the youngster’s loan spell, and if he doesn’t manage to get enough minutes on the pitch, it could be another loan for him in the summer.