For Henry Onyekuru, this season’s loan from Everton to Anderlecht was the chance for him to get a work permit so he could finally play for the Toffees.
Not meeting the requirements to get the paperwork needed to ply his trade in England, the young winger was sent back to Belgium with hope he would consolidate his place in the Nigeria squad ahead of the World Cup, play most of their games and then get his work permit.
Unfortunately, a severe knee injury appeared to cut his season short, although there has since been hope that he could return before the end of the campaign, at least on Everton’s side.
The Premier League club believe he should be able to return within the next month or so, but Anderlecht, the ones in charge of giving him minutes, aren’t that optimistic.
In fact, DH in Belgium report the Jupiler Pro League side don’t think his knee will hold up when he returns, and there’s little chance of him coming back to the club next season, even if he doesn’t get a work permit.
That suggests they aren’t sure he’ll get back to his best, especially if he returns too quickly, which is what they feel Everton are trying to do.
It’s a tricky situation, but it’s a gamble the player is willing to take, such is his desire to feature in this summer’s World Cup and play for the Toffees next season.
