How Everton can compete at the top the effect of Burnley case on transfers

In the second part of Friday’s special Q&A, BBC Radio Merseyside’s Giulia Bould focuses on how the Toffees can compete with the top clubs, which youth players could make an impact at Hill Dickinson Stadium in the future and whether the financial case with Burnley will affect what the club can do in the transfer market.

Ronan asked: What realistic path back to the top exists for Everton and which young players could define our future?

Giulia: As frustrating as it is, time is a big factor. As highlighted by the recent independent panel ruling over a compensation payout to Burnley, The Friedkin Group bought a troubled club that had been chaotically run for years.

However, after spending a full season turning Everton into a financially sound business model, now is the time for the owners to put down some markers on the pitch. There were flashes of what the Toffees can do with a first win at Old Trafford in 13 years and that emphatic victory over Chelsea in March, but the squad was just too small to grind out results for a European finish. That now has to be the aim this coming season if the club is to create that pathway to the top.

As for young players, Harrison Armstrong is one to watch. The 19-year-old went to Preston on loan in the first half of the season but had to be brought back amid an injury crisis, then once the likes of Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall returned from the treatment room and Iliman N’Diaye was back from Afcon, he was reduced to substitute appearances.

There are high hopes he has what it takes to become a Premier League regular, and the manager is a fan.

There is huge excitement around Braiden Graham. The forward was nominated for the Premier League 2 Player of the Season award after an impressive campaign in the academy and now Everton are looking to reward him with a new contract.

The 18-year-old is yet to feature for the first team and the plan for him could include a loan spell at an EFL side first given David Moyes told me: “We need him to build up his physicality and speed [before he can be promoted].”

• Which players you’ve watched at the World Cup do you want Everton to sign?

David asked: Is Everton’s transfer business going to be affected by what has happened between ourselves and Burnley?

Giulia: It is something that a lot of Evertonians were immediately concerned about. The club confirmed it will appeal against the decision and it could be months before that process is even heard.

However, I am informed there will be no impact on the summer transfer activity as a result of the ruling.

The Toffees are in a much more solid place with the finances thanks to the earning capacity of Hill Dickinson Stadium, not just on a matchday but also with the extra revenue coming in from other events such as Magic Weekend.

Whatever the outcome of the appeal, if Everton still have to pay Burnley a compensation package, the amount won’t be included in PSR calculations.

Come back to this page later on Friday for the third and final part of Giulia’s Q&A, which will look at Moyes’ future at the club and how the scouting department works.