Tranmere Rovers boss Micky Mellon has confirmed that Aston Villa have taken the option to recall Rushian Hepburn-Murphy from his loan spell with the League One club.
As Rovers geared up for their League One return, they took Hepburn-Murphy on board following Villaâs promotion to the Premier League.
In total, the 21-year-old has made 17 League One appearances for Tranmere, scoring four goals, as well as an additional strike in two Football League Trophy appearances.
Now, Mellon has confirmed to the clubâs official media channels that Hepburn-Murphy has been recalled by Villa.
However, it doesnât appear that his stay at Villa Park will be a long one, with Football Insider reporting that a loan move to Derby County is on the agenda and set to go ahead despite tonightâs 11pm deadline.
In total, Hepburn-Murphy made 11 Championship appearances during Villaâs three-year stint in the second-tier, failing to score a goal in the claret and blue.
He is expected to link up with a Derby squad sitting 16th in the Championship.
The Verdict Â
This is obviously disappointing for Tranmere, but they know about this type of risk when signing a player on loan.
Villa obviously feel that Hepburn-Murphyâs development is served better at Championship level, with the striker now needing to start making strides in his career.
Whether Derby is the place for him to do that, remains to be seen, but Villa obviously have some faith in the system there under Phillip Cocu.
One to watch in the coming months â should it beat the deadline.
Thoughts? Let us know!