Everton have recalled forward Ellis Simms from his loan spell at Sunderland to bolster their attacking options.

Simms made his Premier League debut with the Toffees last year, playing 62 minutes of a 1-1 draw away at Chelsea in December and then joined Hearts on loan. He went on to score five Scottish Premiership goals in the second half of last season before again being sent out temporarily, this time to Sunderland.

The 21-year-old has scored seven goals in the Championship this term, including a recent run of four strikes in six games, and has returned to Goodison Park to bolster Frank Lampard’s attacking options.

Sunderland sporting director Kristjaan 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.“

Everton added Simms will be available subject to clearance for the trip to Brighton in the first week of 2023. He was not included in the squad for Saturday’s clash with champions Manchester City.