David Moyes told he has 'great finisher' standing by he's yet to use at Everton
Everton's need for a new striker is apparent, but David Moyes may have a hidden gem waiting by.
Thierno Barry remains Moyes' only option up top until the window reopens in three months' time.
Everton fans remain angered by the manner in which no striker was recruited in the summer, with Beto also being allowed to leave.
The fallout from the Folarin Balogun saga continues, but it is fair to say he will not be arriving in the New Year.
Either way, there will be no incomings before the New Year - unless Everton were to look for scraps in the free agent market.
But could there be a natural scorer waiting in the wings for Moyes to usitilise right now?
Northern Ireland boss Michael O'Neill raves about Everton talent
A number of Everton players are away with their countries during this three-week break.
Some are better known than others, such as Jordan Pickford and Jarrad Branthwaite with the England squad.
Braiden Graham's call-up to the Northern Ireland senior squad has gone a little more under the radar, though.
Graham has not yet earned his first senior international cap, but he was part of O'Neill's squad for the 0-0 draw with Hungary earlier this week.
And O'Neill has clearly been impressed by what he has seen from the 19-year-old forward behind the scenes.
As shared by Everton themselves via X on Friday, O'Neill said: "Braiden's a very talented player; a very technical player; a great finisher.
"I've watched him a lot. We've watched Braiden since he was young. I've seen him from 14 or 15.
"What he has shown us in training is a real high technical level and the ability to stick the ball in the net."
When could we realistically see Braiden Graham involved at Everton?
Graham was one of the big winners from Everton's transfer window, given the lack of strikers now available to Moyes.
The teenage talent has already featured regularly in matchday squads, most recently in the win over Ipswich Town before the three-week break.
Moyes has so far been reluctant to turn to the Ballygowan native, which is of course understandable.
The Scotsman would rather turn to his tried and trusted players, rather than an up-and-comer.
If Barry is to be struck down by injury, though, the situation could change.
Until that happens, or Everton are perhaps comfortable in a game, Graham's best chance of minutes will likely come in the third round of the FA Cup a few months from now.

