Everton call off Armstrong sale after fan backlash

Everton have called off a proposed deal to sell midfielder Harrison Armstrong to Nottingham Forest following a backlash from the club's supporters.

Forest made a bid of £40m plus a potential sell-on clause for the England Under-19 international, who is regarded as one of the brightest prospects to emerge from Finch Farm in recent years.

The news enraged Everton supporters, who sang Armstrong's name throughout Saturday's draw at Bournemouth and said there would be a "riot" if he was sold.

Everton 's board, led by chair Dan Friedkin, eventually decided to reject Forest's bid – with the owner at the forefront of the discussions.

'Supporters aren't always wrong' - Moyes on Everton fans' anger

Armstrong has made 24 appearances for Everton and played 87 minutes against the Cherries before he was replaced by Charly Alcaraz.

Speaking after the game Toffees boss David Moyes said he understood the fans' frustration and appeared to suggest the decision was out of his hands.

"I think you always have to consider supporters; supporters aren't always wrong," Moyes.