Sean Dyche calls up ‘athletic’ teenage defender for Everton’s pre-season trip to Ireland

Everton have flown to the Republic of Ireland for their preseason training camp.

Sean Dyche takes his players on a short trip to the Emerald Isle, culminating in the Toffees’ first pre-season friendly of the summer. Captain Seamus Coleman is set for an emotional reunion at Sligo Rovers on Friday evening, 15 years after joining Everton for £60,000.

Dyche will work his players hard throughout the Blues’ stay in Ireland. Dele Alli has flown with the squad despite having a contract at Goodison Park. After missing the entire season due to injury, the midfielder is working his way back to fitness with the goal of earning a new contract.

Meanwhile, Neal Maupay of Brentford and Mason Holgate of Sheffield United have returned on loan. It is unclear whether the pair are in Dyche’s plans.

Elijah Campbell is hoping to catch Dyche’s attention. The defender was spotted boarding Everton’s plane at Liverpool John Lennon Airport, hoping to get a chance with the first team. The 19-year-old centre-back has been with Everton for the past seven years.

Campbell has played for the Blues’ under-18s and under-21s, and he has also represented England at the under-18 level. He made his senior debut in January, signing on loan with Fleetwood Town.

Although the Cod Army were relegated from League One, Campbell’s 12 appearances would have provided him with valuable experience. Charlie Adam, Fleetwood’s head coach and former Liverpool midfielder, praised Campbell’s performance in his first start, stating, “He gives us balance. I knew about him through the recruitment team, but I went to watch him on Monday night against Manchester City.”I just liked everything I saw about him – his energy, athleticism, and youth. He demonstrated all of those qualities today, but I thought the entire team performed brilliantly.”

Campbell is down the Everton pecking order and is unlikely to feature in the first team during the 2024-25 season. However, with Ben Godfrey departing for Atalanta, the teenager could be given some opportunities during the friendly campaign.