Everton handed injury boost ahead of Aston Villa game in Premier League

Dwight McNeil might miss out on the next match

Abdoulaye Doucoure is anticipated to be healthy for this weekend’s match against Aston Villa, according to Everton boss Sean Dyche, with Dwight McNeil being a “touch and go.”

Because of a thigh injury, Doucoure has missed the past four matches across all competitions. But he’s back in the gym, so he should be ready to play against Villa. The midfielder has become an ongoing fixture for the Toffees when healthy and available.

During his pre-game press conference, Dyche provided an update, saying:

“He’s been training, so we’re hopeful, obviously it’s Friday today, two days before the game, but we’re hopeful that he’s fine and he certainly looks fine.”

Regarding winger McNeil, Everton have even more positive news. The former Burnley player was taken off the pitch on a stretcher during last week’s FA Cup match against Crystal Palace, which alarmed Toffees supporters.

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However, it appears that the injury was not quite as serious as initially believed. Although Dyche has acknowledged that it’s doubtful he would be available against Villa, he might be able to return against Palace in the FA Cup replay.

“It’s settled really quick, I think he’s got really lucky,” the Everton boss said. “Sometimes them injuries can fool you, it looked a nasty one, it felt nasty at the time but it’s settled down really really quick. This one, may be touch and go, I doubt he’ll make this one but the next one he’s got a chance, we’ll see.

“He’s been very lucky I think because it did look an awkward one and obviously when they go on the stretchers it’s sometimes alarming but it turns out it was that moment of truth when he realised it was better than he thought which is great news.”

Ashley Young, a former Villa player, has resumed his grass-training regimen and is anticipated to return to action soon, according to Dyche. For the full-back, however, the matchup with Villa will come too soon.

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