Use your head and sign up now for the Everton FC newsletter Sign up now Thank you for subscribing We have more newsletters Show me See our privacy notice Invalid Email

Everton FC starlet Ryan Ledson will not become the second youngest player in Everton’s history – after England called up the talented central midfielder for next month’s European Championships in Malta.

The 16-year-old – born on August 19, 1997 – was on the bench for the Blues recent matches at Southampton and on Saturday against Manchester City.

If he had come on he would have been second only to Jose Baxter as the youngest first team player in the club’s history.

But the England call-up means he will not be available for the Blues final match of the season at Hull City this weekend.

“He has done really well and has deserved the opportunity to be in the first team squad,” said boss Roberto Martinez.

“It was a very close call to him coming on to make his first team debut and it’s a shame now that he needs to join England under-17s. It’s an official tournament, England has priority and Ryan is the captain at that level.

“But he has benefitted from the experience he has had with the first team and we have all been very impressed with Ryan’s development this season and his appearances for the under-21s.

“He is a young man with a very bright future and we want to see that development continue and give him the opportunity he deserves.

“He’s a player destined to be part of the School of Science.”