Everton U23s striker Ellis Simms is joining Blackpool for the remainder of the season. The young forward first joined Everton as a 16-year-old and is a prolific goal scorer in the Premier League 2. The 20-year-old is in sterling form this season, scoring eight goals in twelve appearances.
Ellis Simms Looking for First-Team Football to Further His Development
Striker Has Been a Regular in David Unsworth’s U23 Side for the Last Two Seasons
As reported on the official Blackpool website, Ellis Simms is ready for the first-team action: “This is a club with great history and I’m looking forward to what’s ahead.
“As soon as I found out about the interest, I thought this is the place where I can improve my game.”
Simms offers an all-around skill set with a particular talent for finishing. The striker is highly regarded at Everton, being selected as a substitute more than once by manager Carlo Ancelotti.
However, with Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Cenk Tosun ahead of the youngster, a loan deal is ideal. Earlier this month Everton head of academy coaching John Ebbrell spoke of Simms leaving on loan: “Most January windows I’ve been involved in, two or three players leave and go on to gain experience at a competitive level.”
Blackpool’s manager Neil Critchley wants Simms to prove himself ready for the first team: “Ellis has an outstanding goal record at U18 and U23 level.
“I believe he’s now ready for this step into senior football. He’s a player I’ve been aware of for a few years now. And I’m delighted that he’s chosen to sign for us, given that he had a number of options available.”
He added: “He will add something different at the top end of the pitch. I would like to thank Everton for trusting us with his continued development.”
Blackpool Are Struggling for Goals in League One
This season, the Seasiders are struggling to hit the back of the net. Their meagre haul of 21 goals leaves Blackpool second-bottom in terms of goals scored. However, the addition of Simms may improve their finishing as his goal-scoring ability is one of his best attributes, Simms may add what’s missing.
Blackpool’s next game is an FA Cup fourth-round match against Premier League opponents Brighton & Hove Albion. Blackpool are enjoying themselves in the FA Cup and have already beaten West Bromwich Albion.
Critchley believes his team can enjoy the draw. “We know it’s going to be a tough ask to travel to a Premier League side and get a good result,” he said. “We gave a really good account of ourselves against West Brom on Saturday. Who’s to say we can’t do it again?”
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