Morecambe have signed Everton defender Luca Davis on loan until January 2027. The 20-year-old arrives to address a defensive shortage after Liam Hogan was forced off with a back issue during last weekend's 2-1 defeat at Worksop Town.

Davis is a Manchester-born academy product who can play at centre-back or right-back. He joined Everton from Bury’s Academy at 13 and progressed through their youth ranks, signing his first professional contract in July 2025. Last season he made 16 appearances for Everton's Under-21s across Premier League 2 and cup competitions, and has featured five times at that level so far this term.

Defensive need

With Hogan injured and Will Smith already ruled out long-term, Lewis Baines was the only fully fit recognised central defender available. Davis provides immediate cover at the back for manager Adam Lakeland's side, who sit 17th in the National League North with 14 points from 11 games. The team's recent form has been inconsistent, with two wins, two draws, and two losses in their last six league matches, conceding an average of 1.5 goals per game in that period.

The new signing said he was delighted to make the move. "I’m over the moon to join such a massive club," Davis said. "I was attracted by Morecambe’s style of play and the size of the club."

Davis will be available for selection as Morecambe prepare for a tough home fixture against second-placed Hereford on Saturday. The Shrimps will be looking to bounce back from their loss at Worksop, a game in which Michael Daly scored a second-half consolation. Hereford, who have won four of their last five league games, currently average 2.1 goals per match, presenting a significant test for the patched-up defence.

His loan agreement runs until January 2027, offering a medium-term solution in defence. The squad's current status and player profiles are available on our squad page.

This story first appeared at Lancaster Guardian Football