'I believe he's ready for the step up': Neil Critchley on Blackpool's loan signing of 20-year-old Everton striker following prolific spell in youth football

The Seasiders made the 20-year-old their first addition of the January transfer window this morning, bringing him in on a loan deal until the end of the season.

The striker, who played against Blackpool in pre-season, is one of the leading goalscorers in Under-23s football this season, hitting eight goals in 12 games for the Toffees.

“Ellis has an outstanding goal record at Under-18 and Under-23 level and I believe he’s now ready for this step into senior football,” Critchley said.

“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 will add something different at the top end of the pitch and I would like to thank Everton for trusting us with his continued development.”

On the books at Goodison Park since the age of 16, Simms has been prolific throughout his time on Merseyside.

The striker scored eight goals in 15 league games during the 2019/20 campaign and an incredible 32 goals in 21 league matches for Everton’s U18 side in 2018/19, which took his overall tally to 46 in all competitions that season.

Simms has yet to make his competitive debut for the Toffees, but he was named among Ancelotti’s substitutes during their recent FA Cup win against Rotherham United.

He was also named in Everton’s senior squad for the Premier League fixture against Sheffield United back in July.

The Oldham-born frontman is eligible to make his Blackpool debut on Saturday in their FA Cup fourth round tie against Brighton & Hove Albion.

Simms’ arrival will help boost Blackpool’s frontline during a campaign where they have struggled for goals, scoring just 21 times in 21 league games.

Prior to Simms’ move, the Seasiders only had two recognised number nines on their books in Jerry Yates and Gary Madine.

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