Ben Godfrey 22

When Mason Holgate suffered a pre-season injury that was expected to have kept him out for 12 weeks and young stand-in Jarrad Branthwaite picked up an injury of his own in a Carabao Cup tie, Everton were left with just two fit centre-halves as the extended transfer deadline loomed in early October 2020.

They turned to a hugely promising prospect in Ben Godfrey who had just been relegated with Norwich City but was very highly regarded by Carlo Ancelotti. Godfrey, 22, was signed by the Blues for £20m on transfer deadline day, with reports suggesting that there might be appearance-related add-ons that would increase the final fee.

The York-born defender, who can also operate in defensive midfield, began his career at his hometown club before securing a move to Carrow Road. He impressed in a loan spell at Shrewsbury Town in 2017-18 and returned to help the Canaries gain promotion back to the Premier League the following year.

He played 33 games for Norwich in 2019-20 but couldn't prevent them dropping back to the Championship. Nevertheless, his performances were enough to earn him a move back to the top flight with Everton.

Possessing a good turn of pace and terrific athleticism, England U21 international Godfrey promises to be a shrewd addition to Ancelotti's back line which now boasts a good mix of youth and established players. He signed a five-year contract and picked the No 22 shirt.

FactFile