Everton’s midfield picture is tightening, and one of the club’s most exciting academy prospects is now at the heart of a major January dilemma. Harrison Armstrong has been thriving on loan at Preston North End — scoring, starting regularly and proving himself one of the Championship’s standout teenagers — but with Idrissa Gana Gueye preparing for his final match before the Africa Cup of Nations, David Moyes may soon need reinforcements.
Everton impressed last weekend with a commanding win over Nottingham Forest, yet Moyes made it clear afterwards that he expects the squad to compete for European qualification this season. That ambition will be tested over the coming weeks as Gueye and Iliman Ndiaye depart for international duty, and with Merlin Röhl sidelined by injury, midfield depth has suddenly become a pressing concern.
Moyes admitted he is considering recalling Armstrong next month — but the 18-year-old has now addressed the situation publicly for the first time.
Armstrong: “It’s out of my hands — I want the best decision for my development”
Speaking to the Lancashire Evening Post, Armstrong made no secret of where he feels most comfortable at this stage of his career.
“Well, I think it’s out of my hands. Whatever decision is made, I just hope it’s for the best for my development. I would love to stay here and contribute to the team — hopefully we can get in amongst the play-offs.” — Harrison Armstrong
The midfielder’s loan spell at Preston has been widely praised. Manager Paul Heckingbottom has repeatedly stressed how happy Armstrong is at Deepdale, highlighting the value of consistent minutes for the teenager’s progression. That point was underlined last weekend when Armstrong returned from injury to score his first Preston goal and help secure a draw against Wrexham in the FA Cup.
Armstrong was also quick to acknowledge that the final decision rests with Everton:
“I’m just leaving it in the hands of the people who control it.” — Armstrong
Preston spell already proving its value
Preston supporters have embraced Armstrong quickly. His composure, passing range and off-the-ball maturity belie his age, and Heckingbottom has trusted him in various midfield roles. Even after his recent injury layoff, the 18-year-old returned with confidence, contributing immediately from the bench.
Armstrong has been heavily involved in Preston’s campaign and appears genuinely invested in their play-off push. His comments suggest he believes finishing the season at Deepdale would offer both continuity and development — a stance that aligns with what most academy coaches advocate for players of his profile.
For Everton, the real question is whether immediate need outweighs long-term planning.
Why Everton are considering a recall
From my experience tracking Everton’s squad-building under Moyes, the club typically hesitates to halt a young player’s successful loan unless circumstances force their hand. This winter may be one of those moments. With Gueye away, Röhl injured and Moyes prioritising physical, ball-winning profiles in midfield, Everton risk being overstretched.
Although some argue Armstrong would benefit from accelerated exposure in the Premier League, it’s worth questioning whether Everton’s system — and the pressure of a European push — provides the right environment for a player still learning the rhythm of senior football. Championship minutes, responsibility and tactical freedom may still offer the best development pathway.
The club’s recruitment department also expects to target a new midfielder in January, which could reduce the need to recall Armstrong immediately.
Key Insights
- Armstrong says he wants the “best decision for his development” and would “love to stay” at Preston.
- Everton may recall him due to Gueye and Ndiaye departing for AFCON and Röhl’s injury.
- Preston fans and Heckingbottom have been delighted with his progress.
- Armstrong scored his first goal for Preston last weekend after returning from injury.
- Everton still plan to sign a midfielder in January, which may keep Armstrong on loan.
- Final decision expected early in the January window.
What’s Next?
Armstrong will remain focused on Preston’s play-off ambitions unless Everton intervene. Meanwhile, Moyes must assess whether the teenager’s recall would genuinely benefit the first-team squad — or risk disrupting a development pathway that is working remarkably well.
The coming weeks will determine whether Armstrong spends the second half of the season fighting for a Premier League shirt or driving Preston toward the Championship’s top six.
👉 Everton fans — should Armstrong stay at Preston to develop, or return to boost midfield depth?
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