The 19-year-old joined Hartlepool on loan in the summer but has started just one League Two fixture since his move which was the opening day of the season against Walsall.

Taylor is still allowed to play for Sunderland’s under-21s side and has recently featured in games against Newcastle and Southampton in Premier League 2. When asked about Taylor’s situation, Sunderland Under-21s boss Graeme Murty told the Sunderland Echo: "Obviously he’s with Hartlepool, he’s on loan and we need to make sure because he’s one of our players that if he’s not getting minutes we aid his development. “We have a duty of care to that young man to make sure that he continues his development pathway." Sunderland have struggled for forwards this season as a result of injuries to Ross Stewart and Ellis Simms. They went several games without a recognised striker which is something that may impact whether Taylor continues his loan spell. This comes after Hartlepool manager Keith Curle admitted in November that the Black Cats do hold a recall clause in Taylor's loan agreement should game time continue to be limited for the youngster.  

  The Verdict It would make sense to recall Taylor from Hartlepool even if considering the lack of game time as an issue. He will be better off suited being around the Sunderland first team, especially with the lack of depth in forward areas. If he continues to impress in training at his parent club whilst grabbing goals for the under 21s, it could lead to a first team opportunity. Not only that, but Tony Mowbray is known for his work with younger players. The likes of Scott Wharton, Lewis Travis broke through at Blackburn under his tutelage, whilst James Maddison and John Fleck thrived under him at Coventry. It's might well be a slim chance, but a chance nonetheless to break into the first team should Taylor head back to the Stadium of Light in January.