Everton boss Marco Silva had played down Lewis Gibson’s chances of playing this term.
Everton’s failure to sign a centre-back over the summer may well leave Marco Silva relying on Lewis Gibson to make the step up this season, just weeks after he said the youngster wasn’t ready.
Gibson was one of Everton’s stars of pre-season, but the 19-year-old did not do enough to convince Silva he was ready for a first-team place.
“Even if the boy [Lewis] Gibson is working with us, he’s not ready yet for this level,” Silva said to the Liverpool Echo.
Silva may be left with no choice but to throw Gibson in at the deep end this season though.
Everton are currently fine for central defensive options, with Yerry Mina and Micheal Keane first choice and Mason Holgate operating in reserve.
However, if injury does strike, then Gibson will surely get a promotion.
Gibson looks like Everton’s fourth choice natural centre-back at this moment in time, although Jean-Philppe Gbamin can also play there if required.
Gibson is almost certain to stay at Goodison Park rather than head out on loan, given Everton’s shortage of options.
And the youngster must feel confident of his chances of getting some game time, at least in the cup competitions.
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