Harambee Stars Prospect Tyler Onyango on How Loan Spells Have Prevented Him From Stagnating at Everton

Everton midfielder Tyler Onyango has explained how much the loan system has shaped his development both as a player and as a person.

Onyango, who was born to a Kenyan father and an English mother, is on loan at Stockport County, having also previously enjoyed a spell at Forest Green Rovers.

Although he has made a handful of appearances in an Everton shirt, making two Premier League appearances, regular minutes have been hard to come by. Speaking on The Added Time Podcast recently, Onyango, who has already declared a desire to represent Harambee Stars, explained how the system has been of massive help to him.

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“It’s massive. There are so many benefits. Ideally, as a young player, you go out on loan, play regularly, start games, and build experience. But it’s more than just minutes on the pitch.

“ You’re exposed to real pressures — like fighting a relegation battle, where results matter so much,” Onyango said.

For the midfielder, the biggest shift has been adapting to the intensity and responsibility of senior football.

“Walking into a men’s dressing room for the first time is also huge. It’s completely different to Under-21s or Under-23s football, because here, people’s jobs and careers are on the line.

“ The stakes are real, and you have to perform while managing that pressure. It develops you massively, both as a player and as a person,” he added.

Onyango, who came through Everton’s academy system, explained the sharp contrast between youth football and life in the professional leagues. While academy football focuses on nurturing talent and personal improvement, league football, he said, is unforgiving and results-oriented.

“Of course, whether it’s Under-16s, Under-18s, or Under-21s, you always want to win. But in the league, it’s not just about playing well — it’s about results. 

“The crowd, the atmosphere, the pressure on the manager and staff — all of that adds up. At this level, the only thing that matters is three points,” he explained.

He also noted that while youth football prioritises development, in league football, victories are celebrated above all else.

“At Under-21s, the focus is more on development and performance, helping individuals grow. But in league football, if you win, everyone’s happy no matter what. That’s the difference,” Onyango said.

Despite still establishing himself in England, Onyango has already declared his intention to represent Kenya at international level, a commitment that has generated excitement among Harambee Stars supporters.