“Everton’s Hidden Gem: The ‘UNSTOPPABLE’ Iroegbunam Upgrade Set to Eclipse Branthwaite’s Legacy!”
Everton’s progress under David Moyes has been clear, though their League Cup struggles remain a sore point. Tuesday’s loss at Molineux saw them eliminated in the third round once again, marking the fourth such early exit in five years.
Moyes is determined to end the club’s long wait for silverware, but their Premier League form offers far greater encouragement, with the Toffees sat 10th on seven points after five games.
One key reason for optimism is the imminent return of Jarrad Branthwaite. Injured since the start of the campaign, the 23-year-old has become one of the most valued centre-backs in English football, praised for his composure, physicality, and ball-playing ability.
Everton’s defence has held firm without him, yet his presence is expected to elevate their overall fluency as the side continues transitioning to a modern, possession-based style.
His last two top-flight seasons underline why he is regarded as one of the best young defenders in the country.
While Branthwaite’s comeback will boost Everton, concerns remain in midfield. Tim Iroegbunam, brought in to strengthen the engine room, has underwhelmed so far.
Branded a “passenger” in the loss to Aston Villa and unconvincing against Wolves, the 21-year-old has not yet shown the dynamism required at this level.
His struggles have only amplified calls for the club to look within its academy for alternatives.
One standout candidate is Harrison Armstrong, an 18-year-old midfielder considered among Everton’s brightest prospects.
Sent on loan to Preston North End for the season, Armstrong is tipped to follow the same developmental path as Branthwaite, who refined his game during a successful loan at PSV Eindhoven before establishing himself as a Premier League star.
Already, Armstrong has eight senior Everton appearances with three assists, including a standout Carabao Cup display against Mansfield Town, where he registered two assists and a 91% pass completion rate.
Highly regarded by coaches and described as “phenomenal” by former Derby County boss John Eustace, Armstrong has impressed with his tenacity and creativity.
Many fans believe he could already provide more than Iroegbunam in midfield, though Everton feel a Championship loan will accelerate his readiness for Moyes’ first team.
If Armstrong returns as improved as Branthwaite did, he could become a central figure in Everton’s long-term project.
The club’s hierarchy and Moyes see him as a potential future leader in midfield, capable of shielding the defence while adding technical quality.
His rise may well come at Iroegbunam’s expense, but if it strengthens Everton’s resurgence under Moyes, it will be seen as progress.
For now, the Toffees wait on Branthwaite’s return to lift the squad immediately, while Armstrong develops with a view to becoming Everton’s next breakthrough star.
