Ancelotti provides injury update on Andre Gomes and James Rodriguez post-Crystal Palace
Everton withdrew Andre Gomes and James Rodriguez against Crystal Palace and there is good and bad news on their fitness status.
Gomes has picked up a hamstring injury and Carlo Ancelotti does not know the seriousness of it just yet, while the Italian said Rodriguez was taken off as a precaution.
The Colombian started his first match since February, so it was probably always part of Ancelotti’s plan to take him off in the second half.
Per injury expert Ben Dinnery, Ancelotti explained that Gomes will undergo a scan, but currently the issue “doesn’t seem serious”.
Meanwhile, Ancelotti suggested that Allan and Alex Iwobi – who both missed out on Monday – should be back for the next match.
“I think that they will be available for the next game,” said Ancelotti.
Positives to take
The draw with Palace was very disappointing as it was a real chance missed, particularly with West Ham winning.
We are still within reach of the top four, though, and if we can cobble together a good run over the last nine games we may sneak into the Champions League places.
Rodriguez’s return is a big boost in making that a reality, so we are relieved he has not suffered another injury setback.
The class he showed to stroke home his goal against the Eagles shows just how important he could be and his return will no doubt lift his teammates as well as the fans.
He must be wrapped up in cotton wool between now and next Monday, when we take on Brighton in what is a very winnable game.
After that we host Tottenham, who have struggled of late – achieving back-to-back wins is realistic and would be a huge momentum shifter.
With Rodriguez’s help, we can still achieve our dream of finishing in the top four.
In other Everton news, Andy Burnham has slammed “embarrassing” actions from a Palace player.
Be sure to follow Goodison News on Facebook and Twitter for 24/7 updates on Everton and more exclusive interviews with Kevin Campbell.