It has been confirmed that Ellis Simms has been recalled by Everton and is no longer a Sunderland AFC player.
The loanee scored five goals in 17 appearances during his time on Wearside, and did well to fill the void left by Ross Stewart's injury - as well as forming a great 'SAS' partnership with Stewart when both on the pitch.
Everton go into Saturday’s game against Manchester City as the third-lowest scorers in the Premier League, with just 12 goals in 16 games.
They have only had two goals from specialist strikers this season, with Dominic Calvert-Lewin getting one in an injury-hit campaign and Neal Maupay one since his summer arrival from Brighton.
Speakman said: “Ellis’ return to Merseyside is a real disappointment for us due to the shared progress that he and the Club have made this season. Unfortunately, this is the nature of loans when they are successful, but it is a testament to Tony and the wider staff - and of course to Ellis - that Everton feel he is ready to continue his immediate development in a Premier League environment. We all wish Ellis the very best and thank him for the part he has played in our continual progression as a Football Club.”
Ross Stewart is now the only senior striker at the club, amid strong rumours linking him with a January move away.
