Everton’s academy has become rather infamous in recent years, with the likes of Leon Osman and Ross Barkley having broken into the senior squad to become integral parts of the team.

It seems like they could have their next breakout star now with Anthony Gordon, who has exploded onto the scene in recent years with his speed and trickery.

As he came through Finch Farm, he unsurprisingly cost them nothing, but they had to fend off Chelsea’s advances all throughout the summer to keep ahold of him. They were prepared to bid a reported £60m, but fortunately for Frank Lampard, they managed to hold on.

Last season he featured 35 times in the Premier League, and despite recording just four goals and two assists, he was hugely important in his side’s survival.

He was ever-present for them throughout the run-in and remained their main threat alongside Richarlison, as well as ranking in the top 4% for pressures and tackles by wingers across Europe's top five leagues. Whether he was creating or not, he was always putting in 100% effort.

The 21-year-old also created 35 chances across this campaign and attempted 80 dribbles. He was desperate to try something intuitive to force the issue to the opposition, and in a relegation battle, this renegade spirit is so important.

Lampard dubbed the winger a “special player” over the summer, and with two goals already this season it seems like he is poised to smash last season’s return.

His value has seen a sharp increase not only due to his ever-growing top-flight experience, but his performances for England U21s. He already has four goals in his first seven games for his country.

In fact, former Premier League striker Gabby Agbonlahor has tipped the youngster to gate-crash Gareth Southgate’s plans for the upcoming World Cup.

The £10k-per-week “beast”, as journalist Jeff Walner dubbed him, has all the raw talent and potential to be a huge success for Everton. If he can apply it to add more goals and assists he will certainly be in contention for the England squad proper.

Whether the £30m-rated talent does turn into the world-class talent that he can be, or he leaves for the fees being touted, there is no doubting that he will be viewed as another successful product of their wonderful academy.

The Toffees certainly struck gold by bringing him through their academy.