Swansea City have a crucial decision to make in the coming weeks as they bid to determine where Morgan Whittaker's future lies.
The attacker was prematurely recalled from his season-long loan spell with Plymouth Argyle this week - much to the dismay of the Pilgrims and the player himself.
And the Swans must now decide whether they wish to keep the 21-year-old in their ranks for the remainder of the season or sell him to raise funds to sign new recruits.
But what sort of player is returning from Home Park and how exactly did Whittaker fare under Steven Schumacher? We spoke to Chris Errington from our sister title Plymouth Live to find out.
What did you make of Whittaker's time with Plymouth and how much did he improve during the loan?
CE: "He was excellent for Argyle and I think his time at the club also served him very well. He is Argyle's leading League One scorer with nine goals and there have been some memorable strikes among them, including one in the Devon derby against Exeter City and another in the 2-1 victory over Ipswich Town at Home Park in late September.
"Playing as one of two 'number 10s' behind the main striker in Argyle's 3-4-2-1 formation seemed to suit him perfectly. He had the freedom to roam around the pitch and find pockets of space.
"Not only did he score goals, he had seven assists and his vision when on the ball was impressive. Just take a look at Argyle's second goal in their 3-1 win against MK Dons on New Year's Day. His reverse pass to Niall Ennis was sublime."
Do you feel he's now capable of playing Championship football?
CE: "His confidence should be sky high after starring for a team that is top of League One with 56 points from 25 games. Argyle have been superb this season and while far from a one-man team Whittaker has been a big part of that.
"So, yes, I do think he is capable of playing Championship football, while acknowledging it is a big step up from League One. If ever there was a time to check him out in the Championship it is now."
We've all seen the PAFC statement and Whittaker's Instagram posts, but how disappointed and frustrated were Plymouth to lose him prematurely?
CE: "Whittaker's use of the word 'devastated' after his recall from Argyle was a very strong one to use in a public forum. He has made his feelings perfectly clear. Argyle have been more measured in their response, but I am sure privately they will be hugely disappointed. Steven Schumacher told me and the rest of the media after the win against MK Dons that Swansea had given no indication they would be recalling Whittaker, yet 24 hours later Russell Martin all-but-admitted it was happening.
"Argyle have relied heavily on loan players this season because they cannot afford to spend the same amount of money on permanent signings as their League One promotion rivals, and it has worked up so far, but that approach comes with the risk that you can lose them suddenly, as we have seen with Whittaker."
What's next for Whittaker and Plymouth?
CE: "I hope he gets the chance to showcase his ability in the Championship. I interviewed him a few times while he was at Argyle and he was always good to talk to. I thank him and wish him all the very best.
"As for Argyle, there are going to be people who expect Argyle to fall away from the top of the table without Whittaker - probably quite a lot. Steven Schumacher is going to have to use that as extra motivation for his players, and try to find the best possible replacement for him."
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