Ancelotti: No surgery needed for Allan, James still out

Everton host Arsenal tomorrow looking to keep their recent win streak alive, while the visitors are under tremendous pressure having seen themselves slump to just above the relegation zone in the Premier League table.

Speaking ahead of the game, manager Carlo Ancelotti updated the injury status of his squad, starting with key midfielder Allan who was stretchered off against Leicester City with what looked like a hamstring tear.

“Allan had a problem on his hamstring, he had a lesion. We do not know how long it will be.

“We do not know how many games. For the games in this period, he is not going to play.”

By period it sounded like Ancelotti was indicating the festive fixture list, which likely means we don’t see Allan again until 2021. He also added that no surgery will be needed for the Brazilian.

The manager went on to provide more injury updates as well.

“[Seamus] Coleman available, [James] Rodriguez not yet. I think for us it is too soon to put him at risk.

“He is working and I hope he can be ready for the game against Manchester United.

Fabian Delph is the same, he is doing individual treatment, it’s too soon to talk about how long it will be before he comes back.”

Ancelotti wouldn’t drop any hints on his team selection when asked if Seamus Coleman would replace Mason Holgate who has done admirably.

“The important thing is Seamus is fit, and he has a strong desire to play. He is a fantastic captain for us and it’s really important he is back. That’s it, and after that I have to choose the lineup.”

So for Everton it’s lose one, get one back as club captain Coleman is fit for selection again - the big question will be now whether Ancelotti thinks Andre Gomes is the right replacement for Allan against the Gunners, or will it be Tom Davies, Holgate or even Ben Godfrey?