Frank Lampard said Ellis Simms offers "another attacking option" and called on him to offer competition to the club's forwards as Everton hunt for goals.
Simms had been in impressive form during his loan spell at Sunderland, scoring in back to back games before being recalled to Merseyside. The 21-year-old will be assessed by Lampard and his coaching staff as they explore whether he could help the team become more prolific.
Strengthening Lampard's attacking options remains a priority in the January transfer window but the Blues boss suggested he is keen to look at all potential solutions with the club having to operate with care this month. He said: "When we look at where we are at, and I am talking about options off the bench for us and options to start if someone shows himself, we have to look at everything in our hands and Ellis is our player."
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Since those comments, made in the build up to the draw at Manchester City, Lampard has triggered the recall clause in Simms' loan deal. The decision was his and means the young striker will be available for selection for Everton's next Premier League game, against Brighton and Hove Albion on Tuesday night.
Asked whether Simms is likely to be involved, Lampard said after the game at the Etihad Stadium : "I haven't crossed that bridge other than the fact I know he is coming back for us now and we will get him back in and it's another attacking option. It's good he comes off a pretty positive loan at Sunderland. He's our player, so that might give him an extra spring and he has to come in and add and give competition and we will see."
Simms struck seven times in 17 league games for Sunderland after joining them at the start of the season. His performances - including goals in his final two games for the side - led to both the player and club releasing statements once his exit was confirmed. Simms posted to his social media channels: "I would like to say a huge thank you to all the players, staff and fans at Sunderland. I’m grateful to have been a part of this amazing club and I wish you all the best for the remainder of the season." Sunderland sporting director Kristjaan Speakman described Simms' departure as a moment of "real disappointment" for the Championship club.
Simms' opportunity comes after Calvert-Lewin returned to the starting line-up for the first time since suffering knee, hamstring and shoulder injuries before the World Cup and with Neal Maupay and teenager Tom Cannon, who was involved in the three first team games before the trip to Manchester City - where he did not feature - as Lampard's other recognised strikers after the club and Salomon Rondon agreed to his contract being terminated last month.
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