View: 16 y/o sensation could be perfect soultion to long-term Everton problem

Justin Clarke arrived at Everton from AFC Wimbledon in September and has immediately hit the ground running at Finch Farm.

The 16-year-old continued his remarkable goalscoring form for the Under-18s side as his strike secured a comeback victory for Leighton Baines in the 3-2 win against Derby County [2 November].

Jack Harrison and Jesper Lindstrom have struggled to nail down a starting spot on the right flank at Goodison Park this season – the position remains the one glaring weakness of Sean Dyche’s attack.

However, Dyche may have the long-term solution to the problem position within the ranks at Finch Farm as Clarke continues to send a statement of intent in the academy.

Justin Clarke could get first team opportunities at Everton this season

While many neutral supporters may scoff at the prospect of integrating a 16-year-old into the first team fold, they would do well to remember the last Everton player to do so.

Clarke may not reach the heights of what Wayne Rooney achieved throughout his illustrious career, however, the old saying rings true, “if you’re good enough, you’re old enough”.

The forward has been excelling on the flanks at Finch Farm, his goal against Derby County marked six goals in four outings for the Under-18s and his fourth goal in three matches, following a brace against Newcastle United and another goal against Blackburn Rovers.

Dyche has proved he is not afraid to trust in the youth, 19-year-old Roman Dixon started the 4-0 loss against Tottenham earlier this season and Harrison Armstrong was named among the matchday squad to face Southampton on the weekend.

Whereas, Harrison is expected to return to Leeds United at the end of the season after a string of lackluster displays and Lindstrom has not performed much better, both loan deals have proven to be a resounding failure.

Everton will undoubtedly enter the market for another forward in the summer but, until then, Clarke may get his opportunities in perhaps a generous FA Cup tie in the early rounds or if further injuries mount up at Goodison Park.

Dyche would be foolish not to have one eye on the youngster’s development this season, his rise through the ranks could save the Blues millions should he live up to the promise.

In other Everton news, the Bramley Moore Dock Stadium enters the final stages of development ahead of the new Blues era.

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