Everton are keen to recall Mason Holgate from his season-long loan at Southampton in January, according to Football Insider.
The centre-back joined the Saints on a temporary deal in August as he looked to kick-start his career after falling out of favour at Goodison Park. Holgate had previously played a key role at the Merseysiders, particularly under the guidance of Carlo Ancelotti, but was limited to just eight Premier League appearances last season.
It was decided a move back to the Championship would provide the right stepping stone to attain regular first team action and with a club likely to challenge at the top end of the table. However, he has been limited to just five outings thus far, with his latest appearance coming a month ago in the 2-1 win over West Bromwich Albion.
The 27-year-old has been an unused substitute in Southampton’s last four fixtures, causing Everton to make a decision on his future.
According to Football Insider, Sean Dyche will look to cut short the defender’s time at St Mary’s in January before sending him out on another loan deal to a Championship club.
It is said that the manager wants Holgate to play as much football as possible in the second half of the campaign, presumably in an effort to put him in the shop window ahead of a potential permanent exit next summer. He signed a new five-year deal at the club in 2020, meaning he is under contract until 2025.
Meanwhile, Southampton will be looking to continue their pursuit for promotion on Wednesday night when they travel to a rejuvenated Coventry City, who have won three of their last four fixtures.
Writer’s View
This is just one of those moves that hasn’t worked out. In hindsight, it may have been the wrong decision to send Holgate to a club that had retained much of their back line from last season and was already strong enough to cope with Championship football.
The former Barnsley man will have no issues finding a club in the New Year and there may even be the potential to move to another Premier League team that are battling at the foot of the table. However, Everton are currently in a dog fight for survival themselves and may be unwilling to strengthen a direct rival. Expect a club on the fringes of the Championship play-offs to come calling.
Head of Writing
