Everton defender returns from long injury absence

Just a few days after nailing down the loan signature of Eliaquim Mangala, one of Everton’s long term absentees has returned to the fold.

According to the club, left-footed centre back Ramiro Funes Mori makes his competitive return to action today in the Everton U23 match against Arsenal.

It’s a bit of a speedier return for the Argentine international than we perhaps expected, but on Saturday’s evidence at the Emirates, Funes Mori is missed more than we might have realized.

If his rehabilitation matches go well, it would not be a shock to see “RFM” step into the senior side as a left back. Cuco Martina has done well recently, but sorely needs a rest.

Of course, Luke Garbutt also exists, but don’t tell Sam Allardyce. He seems to prefer pretending as if there are no left backs in the organization outside of Leighton Baines. Whatever.

Welcome back and good luck, Ramiro!