Everton’s hand has finally been forced as the club are set to make their final decision on Harrison Armstrong’s future.
The 18-year-old has been enjoying his spell at Preston North End playing regular game time under Paul Heckingbottom.
However, there was always a threat that Everton could take up their option to recall Armstrong from that loan amid their ongoing injury issues.
On Tuesday evening, Everton revealed Charly Alcaraz as the latest injured midfielder on their growing list of absences.
The January transfer window may be about to open for business, but Armstrong will offer the Blues an instant option ahead of the game against Brentford at the weekend.
After the game, Moyes revealed Everton will likely recall Armstrong from Preston, but there could be another twist in the story.
Everton sources share another Harrison Armstrong recall twist
Moyes did warn Preston about potentially recalling Armstrong because of the growing list of absent midfielders on Merseyside.
However, the 18-year-old still needs regular minutes to continue his development and that may not be on offer currently at Everton.
According to journalist Harry Watkinson, sources suggest that Armstrong could even return to Deepdale at the end of January.
What are your thoughts on Everton likely recalling Harrison Armstrong? 🤩
‘I’m told if Armstrong is not playing regularly for #EFC and others return, there is a good chance he returns to Preston later in January,’ he claimed.
Preston fans have raved about Armstrong during his spell in Lancashire having become a regular in the starting XI.
With the Lilywhites pushing for a spot in the play-off places, they would love to see Armstrong play more games for them this season.
Idrissa Gana Gueye’s return from AFCON next month may well allow that, but for now it looks as if Everton will bring their prospect back to Merseyside to add to their options.
Armstrong will struggle to break into Everton XI
Over the summer, Armstrong was desperate to impress Moyes during Everton’s pre-season tour of the United States.
However, the signing of Merlin Rohl on deadline day green lit the youngster’s departure to join Preston on loan.
With Armstrong recalled, what would be your midfield two to face Brentford? 🤔
Potentially returning to Finch Farm in the coming hours, Armstrong now faces a real battle against an in-form James Garner and Tim Iroegbunam.
With Rohl just returning from injury, Iroegbunam has excelled in Everton’s midfield and Garner’s displays speak for themselves.
Where Armstrong will pick up minutes outside of any further injury issues remains to be seen.
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