Everton manager Ronald Koeman has admitted that he made a U-turn in allowing Bryan Oviedo to join Sunderland.
Oviedo is expected to reunite with former Blues manager David Moyes at the Stadium of Light along with fellow Goodison Park fringe player Darron Gibson.
The Costa Rican last played for in the 5-0 hammering by Chelsea in November but remained in Everton’s plans as Leighton Baines’ understudy at left-back.
But Koeman concedes that he reluctantly allowed Oviedo to join the Black Cats after initially ruling out the prospect of offloading the versatile wide player.
“It was difficult because he is, and was, the back-up for Leighton on the left full-back position. But, finally, I changed my mind,” said the Everton manager.
“I spoke to the player and he was always a perfect professional. I understand his feeling, it was difficult for him.
“He got a new challenge to play in Sunderland and that was difficult.
“First of all, I mentioned to him ‘no way, no chance’ because we needed also backups and competition.
“But as a football man, I changed my mind. I don’t know if it’s the best solution or decision that I made.
“I really like the boy and he was working hard, and that was the reason why he was finally got a chance to play.
“It was difficult but I think if we get any problem in that position, we have some good young ones and we can do it with the players that we have at the moment in our squad.”