David Moyes has golden generation on his hands as Everton duo break academy record
David Moyes could be set to oversee a golden generation after Malik Olayiwola and Shea Pita both netted in Everton Under 21s’ 3-2 win over Jong PSV on Monday.
The duo are just both 16 years old, but they played a crucial role in the Toffees’ comeback in the Premier League International Cup.
Going 2-0 down to the Dutch youngsters, Everton managed to score three times in the last 30 minutes to turn the match on its head.
With Everton putting plenty of work into their academy in recent months, it now appears that this is paying off.
Malik Olayiwola and Shea Pita break record in Everton’s academy
According to EFC Statto on 16 December, both Olayiwola’s and Pita’s goals on Monday broke a record.
It was the first time two 16-year-olds had scored in a game for Everton’s reserve team.
Two 16-year-olds scored for Everton U21 in their 3-2 win over Jong PSV (Malik Olayiwola and Shea Pita) – this was the first time two 16-year-olds have scored in a game for Everton’s reserve team. #EFC
— EFC Statto (@EFC_Statto) December 16, 2025
This is no doubt an impressive feat, with PSV boasting plenty of talented youngsters themselves.
Now, it appears that Moyes could be set to oversee a golden generation at Everton, with plenty of talented youngsters coming through the ranks.
On top of Olayiwola and Pita, the Toffees also have Harrison Armstrong, who was sent on loan to Preston in the summer, with the 18-year-old quickly impressing.
Elsewhere, Isaac Heath has shone on loan at Accrington Stanley, with the reigning Everton Under-21s’ Player of the Season having nine goal contributions to date.
Therefore, Moyes will be looking to develop these talents into excellent prospects over the coming years as they strive to break into the first team.
If done successfully, it could help oversee a golden period at the Toffees, as they look to reclaim their place as one of England’s biggest clubs.
Paul Tait: I cannot ignore Olayiwola and Pita
Perhaps the most impress part of the young duo’s display was the fact that neither started on Monday.
Both came off the bench and produced a display that helped claim a memorable win.
Speaking after the match, Everton Under 21s manager Paul Tait was wowed by the performance from the two youngsters.
Malik Olayiwola and Shea Pita were on the scoresheet this evening for Everton Under-21s – both 16-years old. 👏#EFCU21 pic.twitter.com/QGIkk1aOiQ
— Everton Academy (@EvertonAcademy) December 15, 2025
“The substitutes made a massive impact. They’ve been champing at the bit, doing well for the U18s,” said Tait.
“We can’t ignore them for Friday now, when they come on and play like that.”