Ronald Koeman has claimed it is too early to decide if Enner Valencia has a future at Everton.
The Ecuador striker struck in the Blues’ 3-0 win over Southampton as he continues to enjoy a season-long loan deal from West Ham United.
Valencia initially struggled to discover his best form but has since excelled with a series of substitute outings including the one against Koeman’s former side.
But the Everton manager insists that he is still unsure whether the on-loan Hammers front man’s stay at Goodison Park will become a permanent one.
He said: “We had the possibility to get the boy on loan at Everton and it’s good.
“He can play in different positions attacking wise and gives the manager a lot of possibilities to change systems.
“We have a decision to make about his future but it’s too early for that.”
Koeman also revealed that he plans on adding reinforcements during the January transfer window due to Everton’s current and impending midfield dearth options.
Idrissa Gueye is set to be absent for four weeks due to Senegal’s participation in the Africa Cup of Nations while James McCarthy is still recovering from injury.
And despite Tom Davies’ impressive cameo, the Dutchman is eyeing experienced players between now and the window’s closure on January 31.
“He’s doing well. He’s a young player and he needs time but he’s physically strong, and he came on two times before from the bench and played well,” added Koeman.
“But it is also about the fact that we will miss Idrissa Gueye in the next couple of weeks, and we know sometimes we need to protect Gareth Barry.
“James McCarthy is still not fit, so we need as many players as possible in that area.
“It is always good to have young players in, and it is really a good experience for them.”