Everton youngster Mackenzie Hunt has put pen-to-paper on a new one-year contract with the club, keeping him at Finch Farm until the end of June 2023.
The 20-year-old has fought back from an ankle problem suffered in 2019 to show glimpses of his potential over the last couple of campaigns. His last week has been spent in Majorca with fitness trainers and physiotherapists to prepare him for the new season, a decision which he made off his own back.
Now the versatile youngster, who played in central midfield and on the left flank in his 10 appearances for the under-23s last season, is fully focused on the term ahead to make sure he is fit and ready to perform. And he's excited to learn under new under-21s manager Paul Tait once again, having teamed up with the coach in their respective spells for the under-18s.
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Hunt told evertonfc.com : "As long as I am on the pitch, I am confident good things will follow. This is a big season for me, I need to keep my body in good shape, work hard and have a good start.
"I am not thinking about too much beyond the next six months. The past few seasons have been tough and I am excited to get back and stay fit and play.
"I was delighted when I heard the news and I am excited to get back to work with Paul Tait. I really enjoyed playing under him, he gave me a lot of confidence and improved me as a player.
"I have filled out over the past few years, so the physical side of my game has improved."
Director of football Kevin Thelwell has taken a hands-on approach to multiple aspects of the club since his arrival earlier in the year including a shake-up at academy level. He has spoken of his delight at Hunt signing a new deal, and he's confident that he will continue to progress over the course of 2022/23.
Thewell remarked: "We’re pleased for Mackenzie to continue his journey with Everton and look forward to supporting him for what we hope will be a successful season ahead.
"Mackenzie progressed under the guidance of Paul Tait during their time together with our Under-18s and we are confident he will benefit once again from the experience and knowledge of Paul and his Under-21s coaching staff."
