Ellis Simms is part of Everton's squad for the USA as they take in a pre-season tour.
The English Premier League side struggled last season as they narrowly escaped the drop to the English Championship and the former Hearts loanee will now get the chance to impress boss Frank Lampard and stake a claim for a spot in the Toffees' first-team squad next term. The 21-year-old - who spent the second half of last season in the capital - netted seven goals during his time at the club and instantly became a fans' favourite and key player for Robbie Neilson.
He played a major role in securing third spot in the Premiership behind Celtic and Rangers and a place in the Scottish Cup Final. Hearts hoped to bring Simms back to the club on a fresh agreement but a 'major stumbling block' emerged not over a transfer fee but his five-figure weekly-wage. Everton landed in the States yesterday and Simms have been confirmed as part of the 32-man squad. They are set to face Mikel Arteta's Arsenal on Saturday before a clash with Minnesota United four days later.
