David Unsworth says Luke Garbutt can resurrect Everton career

Follow us on Google Discover

Luke Garbutt was frozen out by Ronald Koeman at Everton.

Everton Under-23 manager David Unsworth has told the Liverpool Echo that Luke Garbutt could be in line for a shock return to the first-team under Sam Allardyce.

The 24-year-old was frozen out by former manager Ronald Koeman with his last Everton appearance coming way back in May 2015 against then-Premier League side Sunderland. The Toffees lost 2-0 at Goodison Park.

The former Leeds United left-back has since been loaned to Championship sides Fulham and Wigan but is still yet to be given a proper go in the first team at Everton. But with Leighton Baines injured, he could be given a chance.

Unsworth claimed that the set-piece specialist has been training with the first team of late, and with Everton set to hand a new squad list into the Premier League next month following the transfer window, Garbutt’s name could be included.

“He’s been with us for six months now, he’s acquitted himself really well in training, he’s fitter now, we’ve done so much work on his defensive side,” Unsworth said on Garbutt.

“We all know his quality in the final third and from a dead-ball situation – that’s there for everyone to see. He’s certainly worked hard to get his opportunity to be training with the first-team squad.

“He’s says he’s done okay, he feels comfortable and it’s great he’s up with the first-team now. It’s up to him to take that opportunity as and when it arises.”

Making a total of 12 appearances for the Toffees, Garbutt could now begin to add to that total with right-footed defender Cuco Martina playing on the left side of defence as Baines continues his recovery from injury.

Garbutt has clocked up a huge 70 appearances for Everton’s second string, scoring eight goals and adding five assists as he continues to be renowned for his ability from dead-ball situations.

The former Cheltenham Town and Colchester United loanee has two and a half years remaining on his contract at Goodison Park, with the Daily Star claiming he earns £27,500 a week.