Everton defender Luca Davis has completed a loan move to Morecambe until January. The 20-year-old will spend the first half of the season with the National League North side.
Davis progressed through Everton's academy after joining from Bury at the age of 13. He can operate in central defence or at right-back and signed his first professional contract with the club in July. Last season, he made 16 appearances for the Under-21s across Premier League 2 and cup competitions.
Morecambe manager Adam Lakeland moved for Davis to address an injury crisis in his defence. Club captain Will Smith is out for five months following knee surgery, while Liam Hogan is sidelined with a back issue. This left Lewis Baines as the only fully fit recognised centre-back ahead of their FA Cup tie.
Davis said he was delighted with the move. "I’m over the moon to join such a massive club," the Manchester-born defender stated. "I’m excited to make a difference on the pitch and help get the Shrimps back to where they belong."
The loan allows Everton to manage the development of a promising young player while their first team enjoys a strong start to the Premier League season. Sean Dyche's side are currently fifth in the table with 10 points from six games and are unbeaten in their last five matches.
Davis will provide defensive cover for Morecambe at the Halo Aerospace Stadium, starting with their upcoming FA Cup match at AFC Rushden and Diamonds. Fans can track the progress of all Everton's academy graduates on our squad page.
This story first appeared at Lancaster Guardian Football
