Everton and Colchester United have agreed to extend the loan move of 20-year-old left-back Luke Garbutt.
In 2009 the then 16-year-old joined Everton after snubbing a scholarship and professional contract at Elland Road.
Garbutt was a product of the Leeds United academy, but instead joined Everton, turning professional a year later.
As an 18-year-old Garbutt went to Cheltenham on a loan, having already broken into the England side at Under-19’s level. He went on to make 37 appearances as they missed out on promotion via the play-offs.
The following season he made his one and only Everton appearance as a half-time substitute during the 5-0 victory over Leyton Orient in the Capital One Cup.
With just one competitive game all season, it has to be frustrating for any young professional in the game. That’s why the loan system is so important, to aid in the development of younger players. Giving them a platform to perform in competitive and important games.
This season he is once again enjoying a loan spell away from Goodison Park, making the step up from League Two with Cheltenham, to League One with Colchester United.
He initially made the move in September and has already made ten appearances.
Colchester United have now agreed to extend the loan until January 4th 2014.
‘On a personal level, it’s been very good. I’ve benefited from playing first-team football week-in, week-out. I’ve gained in confidence from each game that I’ve played. he told evertonfc.com.
He added: ‘I’m enjoying my time at Colchester. They’re giving me every opportunity to do what I do best on the football pitch.’
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