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On December 4th, 2016, Yannick Bolasie tore a knee ligament against Manchester United. Now, a little more than a year later, he seems just about ready to return to Everton’s first team and join in on the Blues fine run of recent form. The forward played a half hour for the U23 team earlier in the week. He’ll surely look for a longer spell today.
In a surprise development, it appears midfielder James McCarthy will be playing today too, just a day after it was reported that the Irishman might have to undergo further surgery abroad for help with his ailment.
Great to get @YannickBolasie and @JMcCarthy_16 back in action tonight in U23 match. #COYB ⚽️
— Ryland Morgans (@RylandMorgans1) December 15, 2017
The kids could use the help. The defending Premier League 2 champions have struggled recently. They are without a win since October 27th, losing twice to Leicester City this month and suffering a disappointing 4-0 drubbing at the hands of Liverpool in November.
The Premier League International Cup - held between twelve English clubs and twelve other European clubs - is divided into six groups with group winners and two best runners-up making it into the knockout round.
Much like their senior counterparts, the Everton youth have struggled in international competition. Heading into the last game for the young Blues, they currently have one draw and one loss, and need a big win to stay in contention for qualifying for the next round.
The goal will be to get Bolasie some minutes under his belt and get him off the pitch feeling ready to contribute with the big boys. A positive experience could see him make the bench for Monday’s clash with Swansea City.
Match Details
Date/Time: Friday, December 15th at 11 a.m. PT / 2 p.m ET / 7 p.m. BST
Stadium: Goodison Park, Liverpool, England
Capacity: 40,157
Weather: 41°F/5°C, clear, 0% chance of precipitation, 10 mph winds
How to Watch/Listen
There does not seem to be a stream available at this time. If one becomes available, this post will be updated.
Lineups
Everton
Starting XI - TBA
Subs: TBA