January loan move could be the making of Everton starlet Ellis Simms

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Everton youngster Ellis Simms is making an impression in the U23 team. Simms has made a step up from the U18 team to the U23 side this season and is thriving under David Unsworth.

The Toffees U23 team needed a new striker after Bassala Sambou decided to leave. And Simms has made the step up with aplomb. But a January loan move could be the best option for his career – here’s why.

Professional experience

Simms scored against senior opposition on Tuesday night when he calmly slotted past Stephen Bywater. Everton’s academy team was up against Burton Albion in a tough away fixture and Simms excelled.

This shows that the 18-year-old is able to compete in the professional game. However, he needs more experience at this level before he makes the Premier League leap. Getting minutes under his belt during a half-season loan spell would help to prepare Simms for regular senior football.

First-team path blocked

At the moment, Everton manager Marco Silva has many options standing between Simms and the first-team striker spot. Dominic Calvert-Lewin, Moise Kean, Cenk Tosun and even Oumar Niasse would be preferred.

Richarlison and Theo Walcott are two other options so Simms’ first-team hopes are limited. Unless there is an injury crisis, Everton could allow him to spend some time on loan and show why he should be in the first-team.

Future star?

Simms has only just made the step up from U18 to U23 football. There is no need to rush him into the first-team picture. But it is clear that he has the potential to become a future first-teamer.

The teenager’s best chance of showing off his skills is out on loan. He would be outside his comfort zone in a new environment where he would sink or float. And if he floats, he might just be fast-tracked into Silva’s plans for next year.