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.

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