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Everton loan exit scores on debut, catching David Moyes’ eye

Originally posted on HITC | By Brogan Clasper | Last updated Feb 7, 2026 2:50 PM ET

There’s plenty of young talent in the Everton squad, but not all of them have been able to stay at the club. A few have spent some time out on loan.

But one player that hasn’t needed a loan is Harrison Armstrong. He’s developed nicely into a player who is becoming useful for Everton’s first team.

Armstrong stayed with the club after Preston North End wanted to bring him back, but Moyes decided he’d be better off staying on Merseyside.

The same can’t be said for all the young players at Goodison Park, though, as a few of them have left in search of more regular playing time.

Moyes has never really been big on using academy players since his return. It remains to be seen if that will change in the future.

If it does, there’s already someone making a strong case after scoring right away for his new team.

George Morgan scores on his first appearance after leaving Everton

Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images

In recent months, Moyes has not been overly impressed with Everton’s academy and the players it is producing.

While there may be the occasional bright spot, Moyes clearly believes there’s more to be done in developing talent.

Striker George Morgan left Everton on loan to join AS Cannes last month, and he’s wasted no time making an impact.

Morgan featured for the French side on Friday night and found the net during their 3-2 win.

The youngster pulled Cannes level before a late goal completed a remarkable second-half comeback. He also contributed an assist for their opening goal, capping off an impressive debut in France.

Everton didn’t bring in a new striker during the recent window, confident in their current options. With Morgan now adding another layer of depth to Moyes’ squad, he might become someone worth monitoring as the season goes on.