Linfield boss David Healy says Michael O'Connor will enjoy a break once his loan spell with Waterford comes to an end.
O'Connor has been with Waterford since July, in a deal which saw Bastien Hery move in the opposite direction.
The 21-year-old has scored five goals in 10 appearances for the League of Ireland outfit, whose season draws to a close this weekend.
"Michael was only contracted to Waterford to the end of the League of Ireland season," Healy said.
"He can't play anywhere else until January so he will enjoy a break, like every player in the League of Ireland will.
"There is no point him coming straight back to Linfield as he will need a rest.
"We will then see where we are as a club come January, and see what both parties want to do in the New Year.
"We will look at every option come the New Year."
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