Everton loanee Ellis Simms could be ‘real asset’ under Frank Lampard after he scores for Sunderland
Ellis Simms has been enjoying a fantastic loan spell at Sunderland and his progress should excite Everton boss Frank Lampard.
The 21-year-old forward scored for the Black Cats in the 3-0 win over Millwall in the Championship on 3 December and even earned praise from Sky Sports pundit, Lee Hendrie.
He also registered an assist to cap off a fantastic performance. Simms has scored five goals for the Wearside outfit already and has two assists to his name in the Championship so far.
Real asset
Simms received criticism from a section of fans for being lazy, but such theories are put to bed as he was not fully fit.
James Copley, a journalist working for Sunderland Echo, wrote on Twitter [3 December] that Simms is integral to how Sunderland plays. He has praised his work rate and hailed him as a “real asset”.
Everton could be looking to sign a striker in the January transfer window. Dominic Calvert-Lewin has picked up yet another injury, and his fitness is proving to be a real headache for the club.
Neal Maupay was signed in the summer window from Brighton but he has proved to be a big disappointment so far. He needs to raise his game to convince Lampard.
Simms was superb for Hearts on loan last season and now he has become a big hit at the Stadium of Light. It looks unlikely that he will be recalled in January, but nevertheless, Lampard will be very pleased with his progress.
Lampard loves to work with young talents, and it could be a matter of time before he breaks through at Goodison Park. The Toffees boss had the option to keep the youngster at the club, but he felt a move away on loan will be beneficial for his progress.
The decision has been vindicated, and the Toffees must allow him to continue for the rest of the season.
It will be a huge achievement if he can fire Sunderland for promotion to the Premier League. In that case, Lampard will be forced to pick him for the Everton senior squad next season.
He could be a real asset for the club, if not already.