David Moyes watches on as Harrison Armstrong plays for Preston – This is what Everton boss would’ve seen
David Moyes was in attendance as Harrison Armstrong featured for Preston North End on Tuesday.
Armstrong was loaned out to Preston on transfer deadline day, with Everton keen to supply the midfielder with regular action.
The 18-year-old is seen among the Toffees’ brightest young stars, and could have played a part in Moyes‘ side this season.
Everton will only recall Armstrong in the event of an injury crisis, however, with several players currently standing in the midfielder’s way at the Hill Dickinson Stadium.
Armstrong made his full Preston debut against Charlton at the start of October, and has continued to feature for the Lilywhites in the matches since.
David Moyes in attendance to see Harrison Armstrong
Armstrong impressed Moyes in pre-season training, and had started the campaign close to the first team.
The midfielder was handed his fourth Premier League appearance when he came on against Brighton, and started in the Carabao Cup against Mansfield Town.
| Harrison Armstrong | Vs Mansfield Town (H) |
| Minutes played | 90 |
| Assists | 2 |
| Accurate passes | 59/64 |
| Chances created | 3 |
| Duels won | 4/7 |
| Recoveries | 5 |
It was in the latter game that he really impressed, providing assists for both Everton goals.
But with the arrivals of Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall and Merlin Rohl joining a congested Toffees midfield that already contained Carlos Alcaraz, Idrissa Gueye, James Garner and Tim Iroegbunam, Moyes reluctantly sanctioned Armstrong‘s departure.
The Scot has continued to follow the 18-year-old’s development closely, however, with Patrick Boyland reporting on Wednesday that Moyes was in attendance at Deepdale to watch Armstrong play against Birmingham City.
How did Armstrong play vs Birmingham City?
It was ultimately a disappointing night for Preston North End, who were unable to respond to Phil Neumann’s first-half header in a 1-0 loss.
The home side dominated much of the action and missed two big chances, but were ultimately left empty-handed.
It was a spirited display from Armstrong, however, with the midfielder providing a constant competitive edge in the middle of the park.
The 18-year-old won a massive 11 duels – the most of anyone on the pitch – and completed 81 per cent of his passes.
The England youth international was progressive, with 13 of those passes being played into the final third, and also enjoyed a touch in the opposition box.
But the defensive side was where Armstrong thrived, also winning a tackle and registering three recoveries on the night.
The midfielder could not come away with any points for his efforts, but certainly would have earnt the favour of his parent club and Moyes.
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