The two ‘outstanding prospects’ who Everton are certain will have a big future at Goodison Park

Everton have a rich history of developing players from their prestigious academy.

   Wayne Rooney is certainly the most notable example, while Leon Osman and Tony Hibert are also success stories.

   Jarrad Branthwaite, although signed for Carlisle, is a current case study in an academy prospect and looks set to have a glittering career at the highest level.

   Indeed, Manchester United are showing an interest in Branthwaite ahead of the January transfer window, but they need to meet his £75m valuation for Everton to even entertain consideration.

   The Toffees are hoping for more success stories from the Finch Farm academy over the next few years and it has just emerged that the coaches believe the two youngsters are destined for bright futures.

   Harrison Armstrong and Roman Dixon have both predicted big futures at Everton

   According to i News, Everton believe they have two “outstanding prospects” on their books in the form of teenage duo Harrison Armstrong and Roman Dixon.

   Both have already made their debuts for The Toffees, with Dixon playing the full 90 against Tottenham Hotspur earlier this season.

   Armstrong, who is two years younger than 19-year-old Dixon, started against Southampton in the Carabao Cup and is a regular part of Sean Dyche’s matchday squad.

   Everton are keen not to “block the pipeline” for their highly-rated youngster as Kevin Thelwell admits it would be foolish to spend big on a player in the same position.

   “I would be foolish to spend millions on a player when we have one who can come through,” said the sporting director.

   “I’d rather give him a chance than spend that money and luckily we have first-team coaches who feel the same way.”

   It’s also swirling around Braiden Graham

   Armstrong and Dixon are clearly the academy stars closest to the first team, but there is also “buzz” around Braiden Graham.

   Graham, who is a Northern Ireland youth international, operates as a centre-forward for the under-18s and has been prolific.

   The 2007-born has scored six times in seven games this season and was handed a professional contract earlier this month.

   So Graham is definitely one to watch out for.