Everton youngster continues to impress.
Everton youngster Ryan Astley earned the praise of under-23 coach David Unsworth after his performance in the under-23 mini derby with Liverpool.
Astley is normally a centre-back, and on this occasion he was asked to fill in at right-back.
Astley stepped up, helping Everton to keep a clean sheet in the 2-0 victory.
Manager David Unsworth told Everton’s official club website: “The back four were outstanding again.
“You see Ryan Astley playing in a position [right-back] where he is not used to, and he was excellent.”
Astley’s contribution is made even better by the fact he is only 17-years-old.
The Wales youth international only signed his first professional contract in January, reward for impressive progress.
It says a lot that he has made the step up from the under-18s to under-23s already.
Clearly the challenge has not fazed him, helping Everton reach the top of the under-23 table, where they have a four point gap.
Nathan Broadhead scored both goals for Everton in the win.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
