Everton have finally seen Harrison Armstrong return to the club having been recalled from his loan with Preston North End.
It has been a decision which was looking more and more likely for Everton as the weeks neared the January window opening.
Preston will understand the decision made as Armstrong is needed to cover Everton’s growing list of injuries.
David Moyes admitted he was likely to recall Armstrong from Preston following the game on Tuesday evening against Nottingham Forest.
However, not all hope is lost for Paul Heckingbottom as it has been suggested that Everton could return Armstrong to Preston at the end of the window.
With speculation swirling, Moyes has clarified how the coming weeks could play out for the 18-year-old midfielder.
Everton share Harrison Armstrong plan after Preston recall
Since returning to Merseyside, Armstrong has broken his silence over his Preston exit having spent some quality months at Deepdale.
Make no mistake about it, Moyes wants to see the 18-year-old play regular football and he is aware that may not happen at Everton.
Speaking to the media at Finch Farm, Moyes admitted he would like to return Armstrong to Preston for the remainder of the season.
“The truth is I would like him to go back to Preston. I want Preston to get promoted. They’re in a really good position, they’re pushing for the play offs,” said Moyes.
What is the best next step for Harrison Armstrong after his recall? 🤩
“I think it’s been really good for him. I’ve watched him quite regularly for Preston and he’s done a good job for them.
“If things allow me, then I will certainly send him back because I think it’s really good for his education. But we need him at the moment. If he does well then we will keep hold of him.”
Armstrong is available to play against Brentford at the weekend in Everton’s first game of 2026.
However, he will have some job on his hands to uproot either James Garner or Tim Iroegbunam from the starting XI.
Preston will offer Armstrong greater chance at development
Everton will have everything crossed that there are no further injuries set to hit the squad on Merseyside.
Charly Alcaraz will not return for Everton vs Brentford on Sunday after he missed the win over Forest earlier in the week.
Despite this, Armstrong still has some serious competition for a spot in the starting XI following his return to Finch Farm.
With Armstrong recalled, what would be your midfield two to face Brentford? 🤔
Add to that the expected return for Idrissa Gana Gueye over the coming weeks from the Africa Cup of Nations.
How much game time Armstrong may actually get will have to be seen.
With all of this in mind, Everton clearly acknowledge that Armstrong is going to get more of an opportunity out on loan with Preston.
However, it was essential that Moyes covered his squad depth issues by recalling Armstrong – albeit maybe only for a few weeks.
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