Francis Okoronkwo and the other Everton players who caught the eye in FA Youth Cup defeat to Manchester United

Everton's under-18s suffered something of a double disappointment as they were knocked out of the FA Youth Cup on Wednesday evening.

Not only are the youngsters now losing out on silverware, which is a crucial part of the game for any player, but they are also missing a couple more opportunities to build an impressive platform for their future.

Just look at a few of the players involved in the Blues' run to last season's quarter-final, for example.

Tyler Onyango is regularly training with the first team and has made Premier League appearances this season.

Thierry Small became Everton's youngest-ever player before securing a permanent move to Southampton in the summer. Lewis Warrington is now playing senior football with Tranmere Rovers after moving out on loan.

Even the likes of Reece Welch, Elijah Campbell, Tom Cannon and Charlie Whitaker have all made themselves regulars in the under-23s in recent weeks and months to continue their development path.

This is an important competition for youth sides. It gives that extra competitive edge, and it allows players a prominent platform to maybe catch the eye of supporters, staff at their current club, or even scouts from elsewhere.

Everton's 4-1 loss to Manchester United at Old Trafford on Wednesday night was eventually deserved. The visitors had periods of domination in the first half, and the penalty the hosts earned to equalise was a frankly ridiculous decision.

But, following that strike, the Blues' opponents gained the upper hand and never lessened their grip on proceedings.

Paul Tait's side will certainly still be disappointed at the manner of the equaliser, and who knows what might have happened if that spot-kick hadn't been given so quickly after Francis