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Derby County set the wheels in motion for 19-year-old’s emergence as a £40m Premier League star: Opinion

Derby County gave Harrison Armstrong his first shot at regular senior football, and the midfielder’s star has risen…

By James Ray · The 72

Published: Thursday, 12 November 2026 at 3:45 PM

Key Things to Know

James Ray argues Derby County kick-started Harrison Armstrong's emergence into a top-flight midfielder.
Armstrong joined Derby County on loan from Everton in January 2025, starting the final 12 games.
Everton reportedly agreed to a £40m deal with Nottingham Forest before reversing the decision following fan outcry.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Writer James Ray argues that Derby County played a foundational role in midfielder Harrison Armstrong's development into an established Premier League player. The teenager joined Derby County on loan from Everton in January 2025 during an EFL Championship relegation battle under John Eustace, where he secured a regular starting spot across the final 12 matches of the season.

Following a subsequent loan spell at Preston North End, Armstrong returned to Everton and became a key starter under David Moyes. The writer highlights that Everton rejected a potential £40m transfer deal from Nottingham Forest following fan backlash, cementing Armstrong's status as a vital top-flight talent.

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