Lewis Warrington has signed a new contract with Everton.
The deal will keep the 19-year-old midfielder, who enjoyed an impressive loan spell at Tranmere Rovers this season, at the club until the end of June 2024.
He made 17 appearances for the Prenton Park club - scoring his first senior goal with an impressive strike against Harrogate Town.
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The Birkenhead-born teenager, who joined Everton Academy aged six, said: “It feels brilliant to extend my time here. I’ve supported Everton all my life and playing for my boyhood club is what I’ve dreamt of.
“To sign another deal, it’s massive for me, my family and my friends. They’re all made up for me. It’s been a good season for me personally. To go on loan and get that experience so early was good.
“I feel I’ve developed my game. I went to Tranmere as a sitting midfielder but the loan has transformed me into an all-round centre midfielder. I feel more athletic and fitter and it should help me a lot for next season.
“Every game is different in that league, so you’ve got to adapt to it. The Tranmere fans want you to do well, but they also demand 100% effort from you like Evertonians do. I really enjoyed the experience. It was a massive learning curve for me.”
Warrington is hoping to catch the eye of Frank Lampard - who has spoken highly of the club’s U23s and featured several in his matchday squads.
He said: “My next goal is to go up and train with the first team, try to impress, and give my all in every training session. You wouldn’t really be a midfielder if you’ve never said you have looked up to players like Frank Lampard. I certainly have. I want to go in and try to impress him. He’s always been a role model to me, and I would like to learn from him and hopefully that will make me into an even better player.”
Warrington played alongside former Everton Academy graduate and Tranmere captain Peter Clarke while on loan and praised his former teammate’s role in his development, adding: “Clarkey was massive for me while I was there,” added Warrington. He would put his arm round me as soon as I came through the door. He was always encouraging. You learn a lot off him. He’s a true professional. He’s an inspiration for everyone and someone who is good to look up to.”
