Harrison Armstrong faces an incredibly important week regarding his short-term future at Everton.
Having been recalled earlier in the month from his loan stint with Preston North End, Armstrong has been handed a big opportunity to impress on Merseyside.
The 18-year-old midfielder had become a regular under Paul Heckingbottom at Deepdale.
Although there will have been concerns over his playing time, David Moyes has regularly used Armstrong and even started him
James Garner has been so impressed by Armstrong since he made his return to Everton this month.
With Everton set to receive Idrissa Gana Gueye back from the Africa Cup of Nations, Heckingbottom has spoken about his expectations for Armstrong’s future.
Preston hopeful of Harrison Armstrong returning from Everton recall
Moyes wanted to return Armstrong to Preston for the 18-year-old to continue his development with regular football.
Since being recalled, Armstrong has actually played quite a big role for Everton.
Speaking to BBC Sport, Heckingbottom has admitted he’s already preparing to welcome Armstrong back to Deepdale.
What is the best next step for Harrison Armstrong after his recall? 🤩
“I’m preparing for him to come back,” he said.
“It’s not down to me. You hope for the best and prepare for the worst.
“If something happens with Harrison and he doesn’t come back, we need to fill that one [spot in the squad].”
Moyes has been so impressed with Armstrong, with the 62-year-old even changing formation to fit in the midfielder.
The big question centres around whether there will be a spot in the starting XI for Armstrong to warrant not sending him back to Preston for the remainder of the term.
Tim Iroegbunam injury may make Armstrong decision for David Moyes
Injuries have decimated Moyes’ Everton side this season and there has been no let up over recent weeks.
Iroegbunam has impressed Moyes over recent weeks, with Gueye away at the Africa Cup of Nations.
Do you go with a two or even David Moyes’ new three-man midfield? 🤩
Do not forget Tim Iroegbunam!
However, the midfielder has now fallen to injury, which leaves Moyes with only Armstrong and James Garner for the weekend.
Discussing a number of players, including Iroegbunam, Moyes said on Friday: “They’re getting closer but they’re not training yet.”
It will certainly be interesting to see what effect this will have on the decision over Armstrong’s future for the remainder of the season.
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