Earlier this month, Marco Silva explained to the press his reasons for letting Nikola Vlasic leave on loan to CSKA Moscow.

The Everton manager stated that with the number of players at his disposal capable of playing behind the striker, the 20-year-old might not have received the number of opportunities he desired, and, aware of this, the attacking midfielder accepted the chance handed to him by the Russian side.

Since his exit, the Toffees have started the season tepidly, picking up just six points from their opening six games, and the Croatia U21 international’s father believes this is down to Marco Silva’s decision to let his son leave on loan.

Speaking to Championat in Russia, Yoshko Vlasic said: “Marco Silva is under enormous pressure because he gave Nikola away on loan. Many fans and journalists believe Everton have big problems in midfield, and Nikola is the player they need.

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“Vlasic told Silva before leaving he considered himself the best midfielder in the team. The manager made a big mistake.”

Seemingly not happy with what happened over the summer, the father and agent appears to have gone on the attack about his son’s Everton situation, and Yoshko Vlasic doesn’t think he will return to Goodison Park anytime soon.

He continued: “Nikola is enjoying his time and is playing at CSKA. He has an excellent manager and excellent support from his team. Nikola might stay at CSKA next season, but it’s too early to talk about it.”

Joining from Hajduk Split last summer for just under £10m, Vlasic made just 19 appearances in all competitions for Everton, picking up two goals and an assist along the way.

Since moving to Moscow, he’s already surpassed that, scoring two goals and assisting his teammates twice in just six games.