Everton Under-18s full-back Jack Butler has signed his first professional contract until the end of June 2025.    

Born and raised in Liverpool, the 17-year-old joined Everton’s Academy at the age of 13 and has steadily risen through the ranks to become an important member of Leighton Baines’ Under-18s. 

Much like his manager in his playing days, Butler has shown himself to be an energetic left-back who was able to highlight his strengths in both defending and going forward in the latter stages of the 2022/23 season, with all 11 of his league appearances coming from March onwards.    

“At the beginning of the season, I wasn’t really getting much game time because I was injured, unfortunately,” Butler told evertontv. “When I came back, I got a few games under my belt so I’m really happy that was the case.”
    

After finishing the season so strongly, Butler spoke of his pride to put pen to paper on his two-year deal and is eagerly looking ahead to the new campaign.   

“I’m delighted,” said the defender. “My dad also supports Everton so it is great - I love it all. I’m hoping to spend as many years as I can here. I just can’t wait for the new season and to get started now.”    

On the back of what has proven to be a standout year in terms of development, Butler was keen to heap praise on Baines for the role the former Everton and England star has played in his journey.   

Another key aim for next season is to gain further experience with more minutes for Paul Tait’s Under-21s. 

“It’s been great playing for Leighton,” said Butler. “In training he’s been helping me with a lot of things, and I’ve been adding that into my own game. 

“I’m also hoping I can play as many games as I can for the Under-21 and potentially catch the eye of Sean Dyche to train with the Senior Team, too.” `