Stanley Mills feels primed to transfer his electric form onto one of English football’s biggest stages when Everton Under-18s tackle Manchester United in a mouthwatering FA Youth Cup fifth-round showdown at Old Trafford on Wednesday night (7pm GMT).
Attacking midfielder Mills has been on target in both of Everton’s Youth Cup games so far this term, netting a brace as the Blues kicked off their campaign with a 3-2 win over Fulham, before scoring in a 2-1 fourth-round success against Sheffield United.
Everton's FA Youth Cup tie against Manchester United is being streamed live on evertonfc.com for Official Members as well as Season Ticket and Hospitality Members. Click here for more information about Official Memberships and to sign up now.
Aside from his cup exploits, the 18-year-old has mainly represented Everton Under-23s this season, where his work-rate, creativity and goalscoring instinct has also consistently impressed. Mills has registered six goals and provided three assists for David Unsworth’s side in 2021/22.
Mills explained how a combination of expert coaching and growing self-belief has been central to his progress.
He told evertontv: “I’ve been working on the timing of my runs and my end product – whether it’s putting crosses in or being in the box and shooting at goal.
“The coaches been great with me. They’ve tried to help me get into more attacking positions on the pitch.
“And I think just playing regular football and building my confidence has helped me a lot. I’d had a tough couple of years with injuries. It’s my first real season of consistent football.
“I’ve always been quite good in front of goal, but it’s definitely developed this season a lot.
“It’s been good to get goals and confidence is a big part of that. It makes you feel good about yourself, and it makes things feel easier on the pitch.”
This video is for Season Ticket Holders, Official Members and Hospitality Members
If you already have an Official Membership or 22/23 Season Ticket, just login to watch the video.
If you are interested in an Official membership, you can find out how to buy one here.
Also check out our streaming FAQs.
This content or section of the site is available for free to Digital Members
To view this content you need to be a Season Ticket Holder, Hospitality Member or Official Member.
As well as access to live pre-season matches, Official Members receive a range of other benefits, including exclusive content and welcome pack.
MORE INFO - BUY A MEMBERSHIP - STREAMING FAQs
Mills’ focus is now on Wednesday’s Youth Cup clash against United, with Everton aiming to book a spot in the quarter-finals of the competition for the second season running.
The teenager – who was part the squad that reached the last eight in 2021 – insists the Blues boast the character and quality to rise to the occasion at Old Trafford.
“It’s going to be great,” he added.
“It’s one of the best stadiums in England. There are going to be a lot of people watching and it’s a chance to impress, do well as a team and hopefully win the game.
“They will be a good side and have good players. But I believe, on our day, we can beat anyone. We’ll go out there and give it our all.
“I’m very excited and I know all the lads are excited to play at Old Trafford. Hopefully we can put on a show get into the next round.”
Everton's FA Youth Cup tie against Manchester United is being streamed live for Official Members as well as Season Ticket and Hospitality Members. Click here for more information about Official Memberships and to sign up now.
