Could Baines make a return? | Everton at Watford: Injury Report

Everton got some warm weather training in Dubai last weekend to prepare for today’s trip to Watford FC. On the injury front, the Blues are still missing some key players, though a veteran presence could make a return.

Leighton Baines was very prominent in all the training videos from Dubai, and manager Sam Allardyce said that he could play some part today. However, it’s not looking good for Seamus Coleman who left the Blues’ last game against Crystal Palace with what Allardyce later called a muscle problem.

Central defender Ramiro Funes Mori has been training with the squad but the manager felt he needed one more game with the Under-23s before he’d be ready to return after a long layoff. Meanwhile, Everton will be seeking a second opinion on on-loan defender from Manchester City Eliaquim Mangala, who also left the game against the Eagles.

For hosts Watford who are still unhappy with the Blues over the Marco Silva issue, new manager Javi Gracia has some players back from injury but is still missing a full complement of players.

Forward Stefano Okaka, who scored a brace against the Blues last season, returns to the side after looking close to a January transfer window move. Also back in and likely to play are captain Troy Deeney and Andre Gray. Goalkeeper Heurelho Gomes, who has been alternately incredible and abysmal between the sticks could be back for this game as well.

Miguel Britos, Kiko Femenia and Will Hughes have also been training but remain doubtful for this clash. Younes Kaboul, Christian Kabasele, Tom Cleverley, Nathaniel Chalobah, Isaac Success and Craig Cathcart are all still out.