RYAN LEDSON

AGE: 20 CLUB: Oxford United POSITION: Midfield VALUE: £500,000 2017-18 APPS: 8 GOALS: 0 WHAT’S HE GOT? THREE seasons ago he was an outstanding Everton prospect and England youth talent. But shrewd youth signings at Goodison Park have seen his career change course and he has opted for regular league football. He will improve with experience in the hardened world of senior football. In a recent game, he sat deepest of a three in midfield but with licence to break when his secondary shield held his ground. He was a vital cog in the excellent movement of his team. Very competitive, he chased hased down bigger opponents with a refreshing enthusiasm. He was shown a yellow card when standing still and obstructing an opponent, when a tackle was warranted. He showed composure in possession and did not panic. When challenged too quickly, he sidestepped the tackle to come away with the ball. Not particularly tall at 5ft 10in for a shielding role in front of the back four, his strength is having the freedom to collect and be selective with his passing. He played a couple of longer balls down the channels for his quick striker. He should not be deterred by the EvertonE experience. He will learn quickly at le league level and is an ex example to any young ta talent denied o opportunities who do does not want to stay com comfortable too long in the sh shadows.

WHAT DOES HE NEED?

HE would be advised to continue to keep it simple. On one occasion, he used the outside of his right foot, trying an unnecessary swerved pass. He does not look like a finisher, more a setting-up passer. His enthusiasm also led him to press the opposition keeper on a backpass when his colleagues were not following up and so the keeper passed it wide to an unmarked centre back.