Harrison Armstrong started his first match for Preston North End this week and, while he was made to wait, it had been coming. The Everton starlet is widely expected to become a strong contender for a starting berth at Deepdale.

But he has needed to be patient due to the circumstances of his arrival. The 18-year-old joined Paul Heckingbottom’ squad with the season underway and with the team in good form that persisted through September.

While that meant giving Armstrong starting opportunities was a challenge, his opening weeks left no-one at the club with any doubt that he is a talent, one who is hungry to take on the rigours of the Championship for the campaign ahead.

“He's got...