C&C Figure In Walter's Plans

It does not appear that the initial targets – Nick Chadwick and Peter Clarke will be making a loan move to Sincil Bank. There was an abundant amount of speculation surrounding the two in terms of a possible switch to the Imps, but following first team appearances for the Blues in their 1-1 draw with Aston Villa on Wednesday, it seems unlikely they will be going anywhere.

To add more salt to the wound, Peter Clarke was granted his home debut, as Everton went down 2-1 to lowly Ipswich, on Saturday. Clarke did very well in the first period, before being substituted at half time due to a combination of a change of tactics and a whack on his left arm. Nick Chadwick was unable to join the squad due to an ankle injury.  

Defender Peter Clarke, pulled on a first team shirt for the very first time this season on Wednesday. The England under 18 captain was given a start he craves so much, due to the abscense of David Weir, whose wife was in labour. The Southport-born prospect acquitted himself very well alongside Alan Stubbs at the heart of the Blues defence.

The hardworking Chadwick was introduced in the second half – replacing Danny Cadamarteri on the 70 minute mark. In the 20 minutes he had to impress, Chadwick showed one or two nice touches and created one clear cut chance on goal for himself. In stoppage time, Chadwick volleyed a flick on from Duncan Ferguson over the bar.

With Walter Smith keen to slowly introduce Chadwick and Clarke to the first team at Everton, a move down the football league ladder now seems implausible. Rumours are suggesting that Alan Buckley is to take a look at Everton youngsters who have yet to establish themselves as being in “first team contention” – such as the Under 18's and Under 19's Academy Squads. Free-scoring Michael Symes has been a name raised by some recently.

Following Tuesday's frustrating defeat at Darlington, Imps supporters are crying out for a better marksman up front. While Lee Thorpe and Dave Cameron are not seen to be doing the business, Tony Battersby took a backlash from a frustrated Buckley this week.

Planet Imp are keeping track of the situation.

Also see the past article entitled “Take Your Pick Buckley – Everton Youngsters” for a comprehensive shortlist of Blues young prospects.