Centre-back Jarrad Branthwaite is closing in on an Everton comeback as the Merseyside club continue their preparations for the up-and-coming trip to Leeds United.
An unspecified injury ruled Branthwaite out of the Toffees' pre-season tour of America. It was deemed by Everton's medical staff that Branthwaite, who signed a new contract earlier this summer, would be better of staying in the UK to continue his rehab work than travelling Stateside.
It is hoped Branthwaite will return to training upon the club's return to Finch Farm tomorrow. The Toffees face Italian side Roma in final pre-season friendly in front of a sold-out Hill Dickinson Stadium before their Premier League opener against the Whites on Monday, August 18.
Speaking after their warm-up match with Manchester United, Everton boss David Moyes said: “We should have Jarrad back on Wednesday when we return, with a bit of luck." Scotland international Nathan Patterson was not involved in the 2-2 draw with the Red Devils due to a potential hernia problem.
“He [Patterson] has got hernia symptoms," said Moyes. "Whether or not he has a hernia, we will have to assess when we get back on Tuesday.”
It is the second time Moyes has managed the Toffees in his career. He returned to the club last January and turned around their fortunes, leading them to a 13th-placed finish.
Everton are working on deals to sign midfielderKiernan Dewsbury-Hall and winger Tyler Dibling from Chelsea and Southampton respectively.
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