Mixed news on injury front for Everton as Man Utd clash looms into view

Everton midfielder Andre Gomes picked up a knee injury in Sunday’s disappointing 2-0 defeat at Newcastle, Carlo Ancelotti has confirmed.

The Portugal international was substituted after 60 minutes at St James’ Park, shortly after giving away the penalty that Callum Wilson converted for the opening goal.

Gomes was seen getting some treatment on the substitutes’ bench and Ancelotti subsequently confirmed that he had picked up an injury, though he is hopeful it isn’t too serious.

“Andre had a little problem on his knee but it was nothing special, just a knock,” he said.

The Toffees will continue to monitor Gomes throughout the week, though it is probably too early to say whether he is doubtful for Saturday’s match against Manchester United.

There was some more positive news on the injury front in the north east, with Cenk Tosun making his comeback from an ACL injury.

Tosun suffered the injury while on loan at Crystal Palace in March, having joined the Eagles on loan in January.

Sunday was his first appearance for Everton under Carlo Ancelotti having not featured at all during the Italian’s first few week’s in charge at the end of last year.

“We need Cenk for some games, he is a good striker in the box, really good, really efficient in the box. It is good to have him back.

“Of course, he has to improve his condition but I think it is an important sign he is back.”

Photo by Tony McArdle/Everton FC via Getty Images

Thought the general perception among the fans is that Tosun does not have a long-term future at the club, he does at leave give Ancelotti a forward option on the bench following Moise Kean’s loan departure to PSG.

Dominic Calvert-Lewin is the undisputed first choice, but Tosun does at least represent some senior cover, though the presence of Ellis Simms on the bench at the weekend suggests he is not too far away from a senior debut.

The Toffees will also be assessing the fitness of Seamus Coleman and James Rodriguez this week after they both sat out the Newcastle game.

Coleman has a hamstring injury while James has severe bruising in (if reports are to be believed) a very painful area!

Both were sorely missed against the Magpies, with the Blues offering little attacking threat.

One player who is certain to return is Lucas Digne, who has completed his one-match ban for his dismissal at Southampton. Richarlison, however, remains suspended.