‘Made up for him’: Everton coach very impressed with 19-year-old youngster last night, he’s seriously quick

By Ben Evans

Everton’s first team have returned from Australia, and are enjoying some time off before the Premier League restarts.

However, the club’s under-21 side are still in action, and recorded a last-gasp win in the Papa John’s Trophy against Mansfield Town.

Speaking to the club’s official website after the match, coach Paul Tait was very pleased with the victory.

The Toffees were 1-0 down heading into the extra-time.

However, goals from Liam Higgins and Tom Cannon earned Everton a place in the next round.

A number of Everton’s under-21s were part of Frank Lampard’s squad Down Under.

Cannon scored his first senior goal against Western Sydney Wanderers, and brought that form back to the UK.

Isaac Price was the standout young star of the tour, and returned to the heart of Everton under-21s midfield.

There was also a return to action for defender Ben Godfrey.

He played 90 minutes last night, after only managing 18 minutes of Premier League action this season.

However, Everton coach Tait singled out Higgins for praise after the match, and was very impressed with his performance.

Tait impressed by teenager Higgins

In a similar vein to Godfrey, Higgins has also been struggling with injuries this season.

The 19-year-old came on at half-time for Roman Quintyne to take over duties on the right.

The rapid full-back popped up alongside Cannon in a centre-forward position, and the striker laid the ball beautifully into his path.

He took a touch out of his feet, before rifling it past Mansfield’s goalkeeper to equalise.

Higgins was clearly emotional as he celebrated, and was mobbed by his Everton teammates.

Tait was seriously impressed with Higgins last night, and glad to see him finally return to action.

“I’m made up for Higgy, he’s been out for a long time,” Tait said.

“He’s had a couple of recurring injuries, that’s his first game in a long time and what he has got is the ability to finish, and he’s got real pace.”