Harrison Armstrong’s short-term future at Everton remains unanswered as the prospect of a return to Preston North End has not been ruled out.
David Moyes was forced into recalling the 18-year-old midfielder from his loan stint at Deepdale due to the injury issues on Merseyside.
Despite taking him back from the Lilywhites, Moyes admitted he wanted to return Armstrong to Preston before the window shuts on Monday.
Although Everton have now seen Idrissa Gana Gueye and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall return to selection, the young midfielder remains at Finch Farm.
What is the best next step for Harrison Armstrong after his recall? 🤩
David Moyes on returning Harrison Armstrong to Preston North End.
Credit: Getty Images/Andrew Kearns – CameraSport.
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A decision is going to be needed on Armstrong’s immediate future as Preston await the call ahead of Monday.
Having returned to Merseyside and played a considerable role in the side, the midfielder has now issued a major hint on where his future may lie.
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Harrison Armstrong drops clue on his Everton future amid Preston return suggestion
Armstrong was withdrawn at half-time against Leeds United earlier in the week having earned a start from Moyes.
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His return has been largely positive having played an actual role under the 62-year-old in the starting XI.
Speaking on the Everton YouTube channel, Armstrong has shared his target to establish himself as a key Everton player.
There are no wrong answers here! They have all been sensational this season 🔥
But which two are you starting if you're Moyes? 🤷♂️
Everton midfielders Harrison Armstrong, James Garner, Tim Iroegbunam and Idrissa Gana Gueye in action.
Credit: Getty Images/Ben Roberts – Danehouse/Richard Martin-Roberts – CameraSport/Michael Regan/Carl Recine.
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“I think so, yeah. Like I said, as a player you’ve got to want more. You can’t be comfortable where you are,” he said.
“Definitely, I think I want to get into the squad and I want to show the fans what I can do and what I’m capable of.
“But there’s still a long way to go and I’ve got to take my opportunities when I get them and impress every day in training.”
Paul Heckingbottom is still expecting Armstrong back at Preston by the end of the window.
Given the injury record at Everton, it would make a lot of sense for the youngster to remain on Merseyside for the rest of the term.
Seamus Coleman has really helped Armstrong at Everton
Armstrong is not the only player at Everton whose future is being considered, with Seamus Coleman playing into the final months of his contract.
The veteran defender has battled with injury again this season, but Coleman has returned to Everton training and the matchday squad recently.
Coleman’s influence off the pitch cannot be underestimated as he plays a huge role in motivating his teammates at Finch Farm.
“Seamus has been brilliant with me. He’s really made sure that I’ve felt comfortable being in and around the lads [first team],” said Armstrong.
“Like I said, it’s so important that you feel at home and, take away the fact of how long I’ve been at the club, it’s having people like that around you; it’s just massive.”
What lies ahead for Coleman will be interesting, with the Irishman having already taken up an interim coaching role following Sean Dyche’s sacking.
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