Everton manager David Moyes has praised the development of midfielder Tim Iroegbunam, highlighting his impressive performances while also stressing that the 20-year-old has room to grow.
The Nigerian-English player has been handed more responsibility this season, stepping up during a period when Everton have been short on substitutions and squad depth. Moyes said the midfielder is improving steadily and adapting well to the demands of Premier League football.
“I thought Tim played really well against Arsenal,” Moyes told reporters ahead of Everton’s trip to Nottingham Forest. “I wasn’t so sure against Burnley, but I’m still really pleased that he’s improving all the time.
“He’s generally struggled a little bit in the 90 minutes of the games and he’s happy to play them because we’re short on substitution choices… so he’s having to find a way to get through the games. He’s done well for us, so we’re pleased with what he’s doing.”
Moyes added that Iroegbunam has the opportunity to establish himself as a regular starter if he continues to perform consistently.
“He’s got an opportunity to take the jersey and hang on to it if he plays well enough to do so. He’s still got a bit to do, and I’ve mentioned that I want him to keep playing forward and be a bit more positive in his overall play. There are parts of his game that are very good, like his recovery and getting back to win things back, which have been excellent.”
Iroegbunam’s progress has been one of the positives for Everton this season, and the club will be hoping the young midfielder can continue to develop into a key figure in Moyes’ plans.
