It's being reported that Derby County are interesting in signing Everton striker Ellis Simms on loan. We spoke with The Unholy Trinity Everton Podcast to find out all about him and what he could potentially bring to The Rams.
It’s rumored that Derby are interested in signing Ellis Simms on loan. What do you make of it?
Unholy Trinity Everton Podcast: Ellis Simms still needs to develop and another loan move would be ideal for him. It is certainly something that has been on the cards since his recovery from injury. Opportunities are limited in the current Everton set up, so playing regular first team football will only help him, us and Derby.
He’s played in the Premier League this season, why are the Toffees looking at loaning him out?
Unholy Trinity Everton Podcast: As mentioned, he needs a loan to develop. It was something the club planned to do, as he was injured so couldn't have gone on loan in the summer. Rafa Benitez is reluctant to use youth, so he'd be spending a lot of time on the bench or in the U23's. Playing league football at Derby would be a lot more beneficial.
Is he well thought of at Everton? Does he have the potential to be a first-team player at Goodison?
Unholy Trinity Everton Podcast: He signed a new three year deal on November, so the club certainly feel he can go on and break into the first team on a regular basis, as well as protecting our position when it comes to transfers. The potential is certainly there. Like any young player, they need to play competitive football, on a regular basis, to see if that can cut it. I've no doubt he can.
What are his strengths?
Unholy Trinity Everton Podcast: He's a strong lad and obviously at his age, will only get stronger. He's got a real decent eye for goal as well, so finishing is certainly a strength. His scoring record at youth level, as well as on loan at Blackpool last season, was impressive. If he can replicate that for Derby, he'll be a real asset for you.
What are is weaknesses?
Unholy Trinity Everton Podcast: He's not blessed with pace, buy that's not his game. It certainly won't detract from the impact he can make.
He is a striker. What kind of striker is he? Is he a pact forward or a hold up man?
Unholy Trinity Everton Podcast: He's good at holding the ball up and bringing others into play. He can carry the ball well to be fair, also. His size allows him to win his fair share of headers as well.
Derby manager Wayne Rooney likes players who are committed to the cause and give 100% in training sessions and games. Is Simms this kind of player?
Unholy Trinity Everton Podcast: His commitment won't be questioned. He did really well at Blackpool and has done all through his youth career, etc. Not one to rock the boat. Just needs that platform to both improve and impress.
Do you think he can adapt to Championship football?
Unholy Trinity Everton Podcast: He'll be fine in the Championship. A year on from playing for Blackpool in League One, physically he will have improved. Given Derby's predicament, I feel he can really help the cause. He will have to learn quickly and he ready to help as soon as he signs. I don't see a problem.
What will it take for him to be successful in Derby?
Unholy Trinity Everton Podcast: Like any youngster, they need to be allowed the time to develop and be successful. I don't mean years etc, more game time, on a regular basis. Output will obviously help, but he can be successful without goals, etc.
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