Everton will be without two midfielders when they visit St James’ Park for their relegation battle against Newcastle next month.
Newcastle United ’s first match after they return from their trip to Saudi Arabia will be at home to Everton on February 8, but the Toffees ruled two players out due to injury today.
Everton are currently 16th in the table, four points ahead of Newcastle, but the club is in turmoil, with no manager in place, fans protesting against the owners, and now bad news regarding injuries.
A statement from Everton today said that midfielder Abdoulaye Doucoure is out for at least four weeks, while potential back-up, Fabian Delph, is also out for at least the same amount of time.
Go here for all the latest Newcastle United news
The statement said: “Everton midfielders Abdoulaye Doucoure and Fabian Delph are expected to be out for a minimum of four weeks after sustaining injuries.
“Frenchman Doucoure was forced off in the 65th minute of Saturday’s Premier League match against Aston Villa at Goodison Park due to a groin problem.
“Subsequent tests have revealed the 29-year-old requires a period of rehabilitation under the care of Everton’s medical staff at USM Finch Farm.
“Meanwhile, Delph sustained a thigh injury during a training session this week and is now undergoing treatment with the Club’s medical team.”
Doucoure has been a regular starter for Everton this season and has grabbed two goals and four assists in the Premier League.
Delph, 32, has only been in the starting line-up three times this season, but he would have been the likely replacement for Doucoure, which leaves Everton with a hole to fill.
