Everton are now just days out from being able to share their decision on the future of Preston North End loanee Harrison Armstrong.
The Toffees have been able to find some really good loan moves for their youngsters this season across the English football pyramid.
David Moyes had all summer to make a decision on Armstrong’s future on Merseyside following their pre-season together.
Armstrong was desperate to impress Moyes, but the verdict was to send Armstrong to Deepdale for a season-long loan.
However, as the January market nears, Everton are considering a potential Armstrong recall and something may have just changed.
Everton now closer to Harrison Armstrong recall from Preston
Everton have been keen to leave Armstrong at Preston, where the midfielder is playing regular minutes under Paul Heckingbottom.
The 18-year-old has been a real hit in Lancashire as the Lilywhites target a play-off finish in the Championship.
Although the Toffees ideally want to leave him out on loan, Moyes told the media on Friday that injuries may force him into a recall next month.
What would be the best decision for Armstrong’s development? 😬
“That could be a possibility and it is getting much more closer to that possibility and we will certainly consider it,” said the 62-year-old.
It must be noted that Armstrong is happy out on loan at Preston as he continues to develop with regular minutes.
Everton’s injury list is growing and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall will miss some time with a hamstring injury.
If Armstrong is to return to Everton, Moyes must ensure the midfielder gets regular minutes to continue developing.
Everton face January transfer conundrum
It has already been suggested that Everton would be open to signing Kobbie Mainoo on loan for the remainder of the season.
He would also demand regular minutes, as that is the reason why his Manchester United future is becoming so uncertain.
You can only pick one in January, who are you taking? 🤔
The conundrum for Everton lies in how long they feel they can wait before informing Preston of their decision.
Clearly, there is a desire to bring in a midfielder over the January window, which may be Everton’s first port of call.
However, they will want to avoid informing Preston in the final days of the window as it could really damage the relationship between the two clubs.
Heckingbottom absolutely adores having Armstrong at Preston.
Of course, Everton have to look out for themselves, but there also has to be a long-term vision with each decision made.
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