“Emerging Talents: Armstrong, Moonan, and Morgan Sign Professional Contracts with Everton”
Harrison Armstrong became the first of what is expected to be several scholars to transition into full-time professional football with Everton this week, signing a contract until June 2027. Despite only turning 17 last January, he is anticipated to be heavily involved with Paul Tait’s Under-21 setup this season.
In my opinion, having watched him play numerous times, he is one of the most promising players to emerge in recent years. His size, strength, and stamina give him an edge. It’s natural to compare him to Isaac Price, a talented recent Blues’ Under-21 player now having a successful career in Belgium and for Northern Ireland. Both play in similar positions and styles. However, despite Price’s undeniable skill, I believe he was less physically suited for the demands of an English Premiership midfield than Armstrong. Harrison, a true box-to-box midfielder, should aim to integrate into the first team over time.
Another potential future star, Bradley Moonan, also signed his first professional contract until June 2026 on Friday.
I have observed Moonan’s development over the past 18 months. He is a right-footed center-back with a composed presence on the ball and reads the game like a seasoned professional. He prefers to make early tackles and intercept passes, reminiscent of a young James Tarkowski or a late-career Phil Jagielka. Although he’s not exceptionally tall at about 6 feet, he holds his own in aerial duels. He is certain to feature in Paul Tait’s Under-21s this season, having already made a few appearances as a 16-year-old.
To complete a trio of future signings, young Welsh youth international striker George Morgan also signed his first professional contract until June 2026. I’ve seen enough of him to know he is a different kind of striker compared to our other young prospects like Martin Sherif, Francis Okoronkwo, Coby Ebere, and new signing Omari Benjamin from Arsenal. It’s encouraging to see a variety of playing styles.
Morgan likes to link play around the penalty area and often arrives in good scoring positions from deeper on the field, somewhat akin to Welsh legend and former Everton player Mark Hughes. No pressure!
In his own words, Morgan discusses his development, which has been occasionally hampered by injuries, but he is now ready to showcase his talent.