Aston Villa have confirmed that Yannick Bolasie has returned to Everton after his loan spell was cut short.

The 29-year-old arrived in the summer when manager Steve Bruce managed to persuade him to join the West Midlands side over Middlesbrough.

However, a lot has changed at Villa since then, with Dean Smith replacing Bruce.

And, even though he has started the last two games for the ex-Brentford boss, the club announced on Twitter this afternoon that he will be going back to Merseyside.

A report from the Guardian claimed that Bolasie forced through the return, with the winger keen on trying to win a place back in the team at Everton, who have struggled recently.

All in all, the former Crystal Palace man made 21 appearances for Villa this season and he weighed in with two goals and four assists in that time.

This news comes after Villa decided to recall Andre Green from his loan spell with Portsmouth, whilst Anwar El Ghazi and Albert Adomah are other options for Smith to use out wide.

Villa are back in action against Ipswich Town this weekend as they look to close the growing gap on the top six.

The Verdict

This is a very surprising move from Bolasie as you can't imagine he will get near the Everton XI with the players they have.

He was getting regular minutes at Villa and they would've wanted him to stay for the season as they look to win promotion.

However, that's not going to happen and they have cleared a high earner off their books, whilst a loan space is now freed up for Smith to use this month.

Thoughts, Villa fans? Let us know in the comments below.