Allardyce provides Everton injury update

After Everton’s drab 0-0 draw away at West Bromwich Albion, manager Sam Allardyce provided a comprehensive update on his injury-stricken squad, and the news was not all good.

Veteran left back Leighton Baines left the game at Southampton with a calf injury, saying he heard something pop there. However, now he appears to have had a reversal after having resumed training recently.

“We've had a bit of a setback with Leighton Baines. He was on the (training) field but has felt his calf again.”

However, there was some positive news too - midfielders James McCarthy and Ross Barkley could both be back very soon.

“James will play in an 11 v 11 game on Wednesday. Ross Barkley is joining in training so hopefully he's not too bad.”

Photo by Jan Kruger/Getty Images

Two other long term injuries, to Seamus Coleman and Ramiro Funes Mori, will still take some time.

“However, Seamus Coleman is still a way off. That's one we would like to get back.

“Ramiro Funes Mori is still way, way off, into March apparently.

“It's tough at the moment. Hopefully when they do get fit they'll stay fit and bring a bit more to the attacking side of our play.”