Position: Midfielder Squad Number: 21 Born: Billinge,Wigan Date of Birth: 17-05-1981 Former Clubs: Carlisle United (loan), Derby County (loan) Transfer Fee: N/A
LEON OSMAN signed for Everton in the summer of 2000 as a trainee and has since gone on to battle his way through the ranks, establishing himself as a first team regular.
His career was in jeopardy following a serious knee injury that threatened to hinder his progress in 2001, but he has recovered remarkably.
Having spent loan spells at both Carlisle and Derby, the diminutive central midfielder is now considered ready for the step up to compete for a first team place.
He is renowned for his excellent passing, creative vision and his keen eye for goal - which was evident when he scored on his debut for the senior side against Wolves at Molyneux in 2004.
Following his spell at Pride Park, he went from strength to strength and was rewarded with a taste of senior action towards the end of the 2003/04 season scoring within five minutes of his full debut against Wolves at Molineux.
Osman became a regular fixture in the first-team during 2004/05 and was subsequently rewarded with a new long-term contract in the summer of 2005.
A strong showing followed, with Leon netting four times during the 2005/6 campaign, proving himself a consistent performer in the latter part of the season.
Osman impressed as the 2006/7 season opened, prompting calls from David Moyes for the player to figure in the England squad.
Consistent once again, Osman started 31 games for the blues and scored three goals, including one in the 2-0 victory against West Ham.
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