Preston North End have announced the highly-anticipated arrival of Harrison Armstrong, on loan from Everton. David Moyes’ past PNE connections have been beneficial for Paul Heckingbottom’s side.
The Toffees’ midfielder contributed two assists in their opening EFL Cup round against Mansfield Town. Armstrong looked to have landed a chance at first team exposure with Everton this season, but a Deadline Day move for Merlin Röhl allowed Moyes to green-light a temporary Preston switch.
North End are looking to bolster their midfield department, with Jordan Thompson and Brad Potts both missing the start of the season through injury. Armstrong featured 15 times for Derby County on loan last season and scored once in the Championship. Prior to this half-season deal, Everton handed the youngster six matches to impress in the first half of the 2024/25 season.
Armstrong is currently out with England under-19s on international duty, which emphasises the level of quality Preston are bringing in this summer.
Upon signing for North End temporarily, Heckingbottom had this to say on another opportunity for their his new signing to gain experience in the Championship and prove to be a vital asset for PNE:
“Harrison is a special talent who we’re really excited to be bringing on board.
“There were a number of clubs after him and he’s been doing so well that we weren’t sure if Everton would keep him around for the Premier League season.
“It’s great for us that they’ve decided this is the best place for him to be right now. He’s got real quality and I’m looking forward to working with him.”
Writer’s View
Armstrong could easily stake a claim as one of the best midfielders in the Championship. It could come as a surprise to see the 18-year-old returning to the second tier after impressing at Everton this summer and Derby last season.
North End will have an abundance of midfield options now, with Armstrong’s arrival. At just 18 years old, the Everton prospect could form an important trio with the likes of Alfie Devine, Mads Frøkjær-Jensen acting as the attacking options and Ali McCann, captain Ben Whiteman and Stefan Thordarson all being available in the double pivot.
