Youth Midfielder Loaned to Barnsley

After an injury-plagued 2016-2017 season, midfielder Joe Williams will take a year-long loan switch to Barnsley. The 20 year old most recently traveled with the team for their friendly in Tanzania. Williams has been a part of Everton since age seven and his current contract with the club runs until 2020.

Williams moved to the U-21 squad on July 1, 2013, and in 2015-2016 he was the Player of the Season for that squad. This step up to the Championship has the potential to be career defining for the youngster who helped Everton win the English Premier League 2 last term. He was in the squad for several first team games last season but did not make a debut.

Described as a “tough tackling midfielder”, Williams can also produce stellar goals from time to time:

This youngster may be a name to keep in mind for the future, if his health returns and his progression continues we may be looking at someone who will defend the Everton badge for years to come. He is clearly already on Ronald Koeman’s radar for senior side participation, and the Championship will be a great place for him to prove his mettle. We wish Joe the best of luck in his upcoming endeavor as we celebrate the bright future for Everton FC that youth like him make possible.