Everton u21 right back George Finney will get his first taste of professional football after securing a move to Scottish Championship side Ayr United.
Finney, 18, was playing u18 football this time last year but his excellent performances at right back, coupled with an injury to Roman Dixon, has seen him establish himself in the u21 side. There he has impressed again with his willingness to get up the wing and whip in crosses for the attacking players.
He has also impressed physically and would suit the profile of a David Moyes defender. While he is some way off the first team he is one of the more talented members of the Everton academy setup.
He will join Scott Brown’s Ayr United as they challenge for promotion in the Scottish Championship.
Finney said: “”It’s men’s football and a big opportunity for me. Having games that mean something and competing for three points in front of a crowd will be huge for my development.
“This is my first proper loan and time away from home. I’m moving up to Ayr with my girlfriend, Kenzie, and I see it as a chance to properly grow and mature while I’m here. My family will be trying to get up to every game and it’s a really important move for us all.
“Playing against professionals can only improve my game and it’s what I need at this stage of my career.”
Finney is not the only Everton youngster on the move this January. The u21s have welcomed back Martin Sherif after his loan from Rotherham, while Francis Okoronkwo’s loan to Lincoln City has been terminated and he has instead joined Doncaster in League One.
Goalkeeper Harry Tyrer, who was a target for Blackpool in the summer after a successful loan, will join Cardiff City in League One in a good move for the talented youngster after being frozen out at Everton.
Meanwhile, Odin Samuel-Smith will return from Marine after several good performances at National League North level. He may return to Crosby where fellow Everton loanee Fraser Barnsley is continuing to impress in goal. Barnsley saved two penalties in a shoot-out to help Marine beat Gloucester City and progress to the next found of the FA Trophy. He is now three games from Wembley.