Even More Praise For Leon

With David Moyes watching Leon put in another man of the match display scoring two headers against the shite in the mini derby at The Deva Stadium. It was his eleventh goal of the season and he must be close to a 1st team spot, maybe starting this Saturday against Fulham.

Reserve Team Boss Andy Holden said: “It was great to see Leon get a taste at Goodison on Saturday.You can see him growing in confidence all the time, which is what you need, and I think going away to Carlisle and doing well up there gave him a boost. He came back here, went straight back into the reserve side and started scoring and making goals. He’s doing ever so well.”(29/04/03)

Versatile Scorer

Not only did he score, but he did it from an unfamiliar position. Playing on the left of midfield, Leon scored against West Brom last night giving another hint to Moyesy that he is ready for the first team. With Everton lacking goals from midfield this season, Leon maybe the player to step into the breach. (12/03/03)

Great Future

Andy Holden wants Leon to start pushing for a first team spot. He was Skipper for the Reserves on Tuesday night and celebrated with a top goal.

Andy said:"A lot of people say he is still only a kid, but he's not a kid anymore. It would just be nice now to see him playing regularly on a Saturday. He is doing ever so well for himself, he's real a grafter. That's why he got the captain's armband. I don't give out it freely and I thought he did ever so well on the night." (05/03/03)

1st Team Chance

After his Hat Trick last week, some fans have been saying young Leon should get a chance with the first team.
Moyesy says: "We're pleased with the way Leon has been progressing and we hoped that when he came back from Carlisle he would be sharp. That has proved to be the case and he has been involved for us in our game down at Spurs. He is a hard working player, who lacks a bit of height, though if the opportunity arises I would have no fear about putting him in the first team." (27/01/03)

Hat-Trick Hero

After making his 1 minute debut for the 1st team against Spurs a few games ago it was back to the reserves for Leon and he responded by putting an impressive hat -trick in the Mancs net. Andy Holden thinks he can go all the way

Andy said: "He’s a good worker, footballer and finisher – as we’ve all seen with this performance. Quite simply he was magnificent.
“He’s a great kid. I’d recommend him to anyone, but hopefully based on his performance – he’ll get himself a contract here at Everton. I think he fully deserves it because he’s different class.” (24/01/03)

Carlisle Want Leon for Longer

Leon has been a star since he joined Carlisle on loan, just over a month ago. He is favourite to be named the October player of the Month, due to his outstanding form, & goalscoring feats. United manager Roddy Collins wants to extend Leon's loan period to beyond the proposed Christmas period, but so far Everton have refused.
Roddy says: " He is an excellent player and a great lad. He can go on to play in the Premier League without a doubt. He has a lot of quality and will be a great addition to the team. Everton have seen him play for us and they are delighted with his progress. He has fantastic feet, he's very intelligent and his close control is super and he can pass the ball as well. He is tough and spring-heeled so he can get up and head the ball well. He scores and creates goals so I could see him going for big money one day." Leon has scored 3 times since he arrived at Burnden Park. Thanks to Austin Smith. (14/11/02)

Leon Goes To Carlisle

Moyesy's decision to play 1st team squad players in the reserves this season, has meant another youngster is to go out on loan. Ossie is to join Third Division Carlisle for one month.

Andy Holden says: I'll miss Ossie, no question about it," said Andy. "But the boy needs to be playing football on a Saturday. He's earned his stab at league football and this is what it's all about. He's done great for me and I'm sure he'll do well at Carlisle. I'll be keeping close tabs on him and I'll be watching some of his games up there."(04/10/02)

Osman scored his second goal of the season, & is enjoying the start of the season.
Leon says: “The ball took a few ricochets in the box, the ball popped up in the air and I was in the right place at the right time to volley it home. I’ve scored two goals this season now and I think I’ve played well when I’ve been involved, so it’s been a good start to the season for me.” (26/09/02)

Leon Scores Winner

Leon Osman scored the winner in last night's reserve win over Man Utd. This puts the Toffees top of the FA Premier Reserve League.

Leon says: “To score any goal at any level of football you play is good, but to score against Manchester United is always a pleasure. Having a big crowd always helps to urge you on and I was glad that we could put a show on for them. It’s a bobbly pitch here – but it’s the same for both players. You work at your technique all week, but for it to pay off in a match, it’s great.” (05/09/02)