'A little worried' - Manager makes Harrison Armstrong admission after Everton starlet impresses

John Eustace praised the performances of the 18-year-old after his stunning goal on Saturday

All aboard the Harrison Armstrong hype train. Derby County boss John Eustace has already alighted.

The Everton youngster has made a huge impact with the Rams during his loan spell at the club, with a string of excellent performances giving the team hope in their relegation battle.

His best moment for his loan club came at the weekend though, when the midfielder caressed a brilliant volley into the corner against Plymouth Argyle. Armstrong's goal helped Derby earn a dramatic 3-2 win and extended their winning run to three games.

The three victories have given the Rams a fighting chance of staying afloat in the second tier. They are now just a point off safety with eight games left this season.

Speaking after the win at the weekend, Eustace singled out the Everton man for some praise, per Rams TV.

"Touch of class from H [Armstrong], for a just-turned 18-year-old," he said. "The way he is maturing into a really good player, it is very pleasing; there is still a lot of hard work ahead.

"I was a little bit worried for him and Tommo [Liam Thompson]; third game in a week and the effort they put in the last two games was phenomenal. The way they kept going today, was really pleasing. So, I am delighted for H [Armstrong]; still a lot of work to go with the boy but he is doing well."

Armstrong was named man of the match in the win over Blackburn Rovers last weekend - the first three points of Eustace’s reign since moving from Ewood Park. He then played 90 minutes as Derby sealed a win over Frank Lampard's high-flying Coventry City.

Armstrong is well thought of at Everton after making his breakthrough into the senior side this season. He started for the Blues in the FA Cup third-round win over Peterborough United in January - his second senior start - before being shipped out on loan.

That night, when Leighton Baines took temporary charge of the team after Sean Dyche's sacking, Armstrong caught the eye with an excellent performance and set up the opening goal for Beto.