Labelled ‘phenomenal’ by Roberto Martinez but Mason Holgate’s time at Everton appears to be up

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As reported by the Liverpool Echo, Everton are prepared to allow Mason Holgate a loan spell away from the club. Sheffield United are keen on bringing him back to Yorkshire and the Toffees are right to consider his exit.

When he first joined the club for a reported £1 million he was hailed as ‘phenomenal’ by then manager Roberto Martinez. The Spaniard, of course, was often one for hyperbole.

Signed from Barnsley, it was hoped Holgate could go on to have as big an impact as a fellow former Tyke. John Stones went on to join Manchester City for £47.5 million after his excellent form at Everton.

“He’s 18 and has already played 20 games in League One which shows the potential. We will be delighted to conclude it.

“He’s a phenomenal young prospect coming into that golden generation we have at this football club.”

– Roberto Martinez ahead of signing Holgate

Holgate, however, has not quite lived up to those early comparisons. There was a brief stage last season where he looked to finally be coming good. That has not been built upon and Holgate now sits way down the pecking order at Everton.

This loan move does not have the feel of getting Holgate minutes so that he can thrive later on. It appears more the beginning of the end at Everton for the 22-year-old.

Marco Silva is a long-term appointment and the Portuguese clearly does not fancy the defender. This loan exit is likely to be the precursor to a permanent one.

Talented, but flawed, the defender simply does not look to have what it takes at Everton. Hopefully, wherever he goes, he can fulfil his potential.