Report: Everton now block 19-year-old youngster from leaving, could be in Lampard's first-team plans

By Ben Evans

Everton have blocked youngster Lewis Warrington from leaving the club on loan, according to I News.

The 19-year-old midfielder has impressed Frank Lampard so much during pre-season, that Everton want to keep him for the first part of their Premier League campaign.

The report suggests that the Toffees have had plenty of interest in the young English central midfielder, who was on loan at League Two Tranmere Rovers last season.

Warrington joined Tranmere on deadline day in the winter transfer window last season.

After missing their match against Stevenage the next day, and sitting on the bench against Barrow four days later, Warrington was introduced to the starting line-up against Swindon Town.

Warrington went on to start every game for the rest of the season for Tranmere as manager Micky Mellon described him as ‘technically such a good little player’.

Everton block youngster leaving with first team in mind

Everton’s midfield has been a key area of debate since Lampard’s move to Goodison Park.

The former Derby and Chelsea manager hasn’t settled on a consistent set-up since arriving at the club, and Everton have been linked with several players in this area.

Former Liverpool favourite Gini Wijnaldum was one name touted as a possible option, and the Toffees are reportedly in talks with their former player Idrissa Gueye over a potential move.

In the other direction, Everton are apparently willing to sell Andre Gomes, after he lost his spot in Lampard’s side.

Young players at Everton already have the blueprint for breaking into Lampard’s side, with Anthony Gordon’s performances in the second half of last season so impressive that he attracted interest from Spurs and Newcastle.

All of this uncertainly in midfield could work in Warrington’s favour, and although the step up from League Two to the Premier League is a big one, having the backing of a manager like Lampard will give the 19-year-old all the confidence he needs.