Andre Gomes has admitted he is unsure of his Everton future as the summer transfer window edges ever closer.
The 29-year-old midfielder was loaned to Lille at the start of the season and has featured 21 times for the Ligue 1 side in all competitions, aiding their push for a European finish.
Limited to only seven Premier League starts last season as the Blues narrowly avoided relegation, Gomes had no doubt seeking a temporary exit from Goodison Park was the best option to boost his chances of regular playing time this term.
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It is a decision that appears to have paid for the Portuguese star, who has continued to monitor the progress of Sean Dyche's side from afar whenever not in action for Lille.
In an exclusive interview with The Athletic, Gomes said: “Last season, not playing that much, was a trigger for me to say, ‘I need to play and show myself I can be at that level again’. The move in the summer was very tough but I needed it. I think I made the right decision. I’m playing a lot and feel confident.
On witnessing Everton involved in a relegation battle for the second season in succession, the former Barcelona star continued: “It’s been tough. I was there (at Everton) last season — the first time I was in that sort of position (fighting relegation) — so I can imagine what it’s like for them now.
"It’s very difficult to manage as you don’t get the results and then you’re always looking for the next points. When that doesn’t happen it brings stress. The mood becomes totally different."
Out of contract in 2024, Gomes is set to return to Merseyside at the end of the season but has refused to rule out the prospect of a permanent departure taking place in the coming months.
“I have no idea (what comes next)," he said "At the end of the season, we will see. I want Lille to qualify for Europe and Everton to finish in a good position."
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