Striker Confirms He Could Make Anfield Return This January

Liverpool FC is poised to recall several loanees in the January transfer window, with James McConnell already confirmed to return early from Ajax and Lewis Koumas tipped for a premature Anfield homecoming from Birmingham City[1][2][3].

Ajax manager Fred Grim has rubber-stamped the termination of McConnell's loan, citing the 21-year-old midfielder's limited impact in Amsterdam. McConnell featured for just 219 minutes across seven appearances before being sidelined after Grim's appointment, which followed John Heitinga's sacking amid poor results. "By agreement between both clubs, he has returned to Liverpool. There are still some administrative procedures to be completed, and then it will be final," Grim stated[1][2].

Meanwhile, 20-year-old forward Lewis Koumas, who impressed with six goals on loan at Stoke last season and scored on his Liverpool debut against Southampton in 2024, faces reduced opportunities at Birmingham. The Championship side recently signed Gambian winger Abdoulie Manneh from Mjällby AIF, adding pace to their attack and likely displacing Koumas. Birmingham manager Chris Davies had noted the need to balance club needs with Liverpool's development plans for the prospect. Reports from GIVEMESPORT indicate Koumas's return is imminent as Birmingham prioritizes play-off pushes[2][3].

Koumas remains optimistic despite limited starts this season, telling BirminghamLive: "We’ve obviously had conversations (with Liverpool) but I’m keeping my head down, working hard... Getting a goal boosts your confidence instantly." He praised Davies for recognizing his attributes after months of training[1].

Unlike Harvey Elliott's complex situation at Aston Villa—where no recall clause exists and unwinding the deal could incur penalties—McConnell and Koumas's returns appear straightforward[1]. Liverpool, fresh off their 2024-25 title win under Arne Slot, continues squad reshaping amid the 2025-26 campaign's challenges[3].

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