The Premier League 2 season may still be several weeks away, but the Everton Under-23s side are already raring to start the defence of their title.
Part of the reason for renewed optimism in the blue half of Merseyside, comes down to Everton making sure they improve all areas of the club. This includes the youth setup, particularly the Under-23s.
Last season saw the Blues win the inaugural Premier League 2 title. However, don’t expect them to rest on their laurels.
In fact, with Everton only being crowned champions before their final game of the 2016/17 campaign, they know they need to improve. And improve they have, if their summer signings are anything to go.
Certainly, the new arrivals make for impressive reading, including the likes of Josh Bowler, Lewis Gibson and Boris Mathis. The Toffees may not even be finished yet, after also being linked to the highly talented Jan Bamert.
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Regardless of if Everton add Bamert or not, they are already well positioned to defend their title. In that respect, they’re raring to go, despite the new season still being a few weeks away.
Manager David Unsworth has been extremely impressed with his players, during their training camp in La Manga, Spain. The team concluded their trip with a friendly versus Hull City, which they won 4-2.
Unsworth is confident the youngsters would be ready to go if the season started tomorrow, in part due to their fitness levels. Speaking to Everton TV, he said:
"“They’ve certainly (worked hard), I can assure you. Their effort, commitment – outstanding; probably the best I’ve seen. It’s been an amazing week. The players have been a credit to themselves and a credit to our football club. It’s been brilliant and we topped it all off with a good performance and a win.”"
If anything, Unsworth’s biggest issue at this point, might be keeping the players focused and stopping them from getting too carried away with their own expectations. In that respect, a trip to Bangor City (no disrespect intended) on August 5, is probably just what the Under-23s need, to keep them grounded.
Next: Blues face stiff competition for Jan Bamert
Which of Everton’s new youth signings are you most looking forward to seeing in action? Further, what kind of success are you predicting for the Under-23s this season? Will they win the Premier League 2 title again? Share your thoughts in the comments section.