Hayden Hackney, the Championship's Player of the Season, has completed a move to Everton in a deal that could reach £24.5 million. The 24-year-old midfielder, born in Redcar, made his top-flight debut for Everton, having previously been a boyhood fan and season-ticket holder at Middlesbrough.
Hackney's path to the Premier League included a formative loan spell at Scunthorpe in League Two during the 2021-22 season. Under former boss Neil Cox, the experience of traveling on the day of games, lacking proper accommodation, and facing a grueling fixture schedule reportedly toughened up the naturally gifted player. "He stood out in possession, but after two or three games, he realised how hard it was," Cox recalled. "It toughened him up. He did a good job."
Despite his strong ties to Middlesbrough, where he inspired the team to the Championship play-off final, Hackney ultimately chose Everton. While he also spoke with Manchester United, the decision to join Everton was influenced by manager David Moyes' track record of developing players from the Championship, such as Jarrod Bowen and Tim Cahill. The prospect of greater influence and the advice of former England youth teammate Jarrad Branthwaite also played a role.
Sources close to Hackney describe him as a grounded and humble individual. His former PE teacher, Paul Freary, noted Hackney's maturity, stating, "He was a very grounded lad, he wasn’t big-headed or arrogant in any way." Hackney opted to study engineering over physical education during his secondary school years, seeking a practical fallback should his football career not materialize. He has maintained strong connections with his former school and friends.
His parents are credited with a significant role in his development, reportedly pushing him hard and offering honest assessments of his performances. This upbringing has contributed to his versatility in midfield, with Hackney comfortable playing as a No. 8, No. 10, or No. 6. While his strengths lie in ball-carrying and creating chances, with five goals and eight assists last season, he has also worked on his physicality to compete in adult football.
Everton manager David Moyes is known for his demanding approach, which former Everton midfielder Leon Osman described as stripping players back to understand their roles within the team. "He makes you understand that there’s 11 players out there," Osman said. "You lose your ego, but your quality still shows through."
Hackney expressed his excitement about the move, calling his first experience at Everton's stadium during a friendly match "unbelievable." The wait for his Premier League debut is now over, marking the culmination of a 24-year journey.
