Matty Pennington made four appearances under Roberto Martinez last season but could he force his way into Ronald Koeman’s Everton plans?
When you are still stuck in the reserves at the age of 22, there is a very real chance that the boat could soon be sailing from the harbour. And Matty Pennington with just four Premier League appearances to his name and none this season, appears in real danger of missing his opportunity at Everton.
However, as reported by the Liverpool Echo, Ronald Koeman could do worse than to take notice of Everton’s reserve team boss.
In the aftermath of the under-23s’ 1-0 win against Arsenal’s next generation on Monday, David Unsworth was effusive in his praise of Pennington’s performance.
“I thought our back four, five including the keeper, defended amazingly tonight,” the under-23 coach said in quotes reported by the Liverpool Echo.
“Matty Pennington, it was probably one of the best displays at this level I’ve ever seen – it was faultless.”
The Warrington born defender’s progress has been blighted this season by a niggling hamstring injury that kept him out of action since July but he certainly showed few ill-effects at the heart of Everton’s back line as they restored their six point lead at the top of the Premier League B table.
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Doubts remain about Phil Jagielka’s long-term future at Goodison Park while the jury remains out on whether Sunderland centre-back Lamine Kone is worth his rather monstrous transfer fee.
Therefore, perhaps Koeman should take inspiration from the rapid progression of Tom Davies and hand Pennington an opportunity to stake his claim.
The lank-haired midfielder, a long-time team-mate of Pennington in the reserves, has exploded into the first-team this season and appears to be improving by the week. His sensational solo goal against Manchester City could be Davies’ ‘Rooney moment’.
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If Unsworth’s judgement is to be believed, Pennington could be the next to make the step up.
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