Everton youngster Jack Butler has set his sights on catching Sean Dyche’s eye after signing his first professional contract with the club.
Born and raised in Liverpool, the 17-year-old joined Everton’s Academy at the age of 13 and made 12 appearances for Leighton Baines’ side last season. The defender also featured on two occasions in the FA Youth Cup.
A former St Francis Xavier’s College pupil, Butler has developed a reputation for being an energetic left-back who likes to defend and get forward, much like his under-18s boss did during his playing days.
And now, after putting pen to paper on a two-year deal, Butler has set his sights on becoming a regular for Paul Tait’s under-21 side, as well as catching the eye of Dyche in the hope of landing a chance to train with the first-team.
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Speaking to evertontv, he said: "At the beginning of the season, I wasn’t really getting much game time because I was injured, unfortunately. When I came back, I got a few games under my belt so I’m really happy that was the case.
"I’m delighted. My dad also supports Everton, so it is great; I love it all. I’m hoping to spend as many years as I can here. I just can’t wait for the new season and to get started now."
Butler then added: "It’s been great playing for Leighton. In training, he’s been helping me with a lot of things, and I’ve been adding that into my own game.
"I’m also hoping I can play as many games as I can for the Under-21 and potentially catch the eye of Sean Dyche to train with the senior team, too."
