Everton boss Frank Lampard has insisted that the recall of Ellis Simms from his loan deal at Sunderland is not a sign that the club will be operating under financial constraints in the January transfer window.
Simms joined the Black Cats on a season-long loan deal in the summer, but was recalled to Merseyside this week to bolster Lampard’s attacking options.
The forward was subsequently named as a substitute against Brighton on Tuesday evening, replacing Dominic Calvert-Lewin in the 83rd minute with the Blues 4-0 down.
When asked if the decision to terminate Simms’ loan deal early indicated that the club’s business in the transfer window would be limited, Lampard insisted that this would not be the case, stating that Simms was recalled purely to offer an extra attacking option.
The Everton boss said, “We brought back Ellis because he is our player, and he is another attacking option for us.
“I don’t know what it is an indication of, we brought on Isaac [Price] as a young player, and I thought Isaac came with good enthusiasm and effort. He is a developing player, is Ellis.
“Do you want to help the squad in January? Yep, for sure. Do we want players who can impact now? Yep, for sure. That is where we are at and I understand your point.”
Simms had scored 7 goals in 14 games in the Championship during his brief stint at the Stadium of Light, prompting hopes that the young forward can have an impact on Everton’s muted forward line.
However, while there are high hopes for the 22-year-old, there is also an understandable reluctance to put too much pressure on the shoulders of the academy graduate.
Indeed, we all hope that Simms can contribute throughout the remainder of the season in front of goal, but at least one striker who is ready to hit the ground running is a must for Everton this month.