Forget Morgan Schneiderlin, Everton fans want Tom Davies to replace AFCON-bound Idrissa Gueye

Follow us on Google Discover

The 18-year-old has only played 42 minutes of Premier League action this season but he’s impressed every time he’s had a chance.

With the January window creaking open, it’s only natural to get carried away with the prospect of a big-money, season-changing signing. And the recent clamour surrounding Everton’s incessant links with Manchester United midfielder Morgan Schneiderlin (BBC Sport) suggests transfer fever has already taken hold among some sections of the Goodison Park support.

However, those who travelled down to the Midlands for the Boxing Day win at Leicester City will have witnessed first-hand a potential answer to Everton’s short-term midfield conundrum.

Coming on in place of Gareth Barry with just over 20 minutes to go, 18-year-old Tom Davies made the most of his sixth Premier League appearance, giving the midfield a healthy boost of energy and tenacity in the closing stages.

The lank-haired teen has long been tipped for a breakthrough at Goodison Park after standing head and shoulders above his contemporaries in the academy system and his growing collection of first-team cameos are only raising the expectation that he could finally make his mark in the second half of the season.

However, his progression into the senior squad may come a little quicker than expected. With Idrissa Gana Gueye potentially absent for up to six matches due to his African Cup of Nations commitments, and James McCarthy still unavailable with injury, Ronald Koeman needs a talented, tenacious midfielder to step up to the plate. Davies suggested against Leicester that he can make the grade at the top level.

According to the BBC, Schneiderlin could yet be in place by the end of the month but, over the next few weeks, Davies has an opportunity to stake his claim. And the fans can’t wait for him to seize it.