Rafael Benitez provides an update on Everton duo Calvert-Lewin and Richarlison
Rafael Benitez has shared a mixed injury update on Everton duo Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Richarlison.
Speaking in his post-match press conference after the Toffees lost 1-0 to West Ham, the Spaniard revealed that Richarlison should be back for the Watford game next week [Liverpool Echo].
However, the England striker is a bit further away and he refused to provide a timescale for Calvert-Lewin’s return.
He said: “I think Richarlison is closer, Dominic will take longer, but Richarlison is getting closer.
“The fact we were winning without Richarlison or Dominic means we could do it the same, but when you play against a good team, and you have some chances, you have to take them, and if not, you have to carry on.
“Missing these players, you have less chance to change and put fresh legs on.”
Mixed message from Benitez.
So, it seems as if the Toffees’ talisman Richarlison should be ready to play against his old club next week as they look to get back to winning ways.
You would think having the 24-year-old back in the side will make a big difference, and you would expect Alex Iwobi or Salomon Rondon to drop out of the team.
In the four Premier League games that Richarlison has played, he has scored one and provided an assist.
However, missing Calvert-Lewin continues to be a problem, and you just have to hope that he plays again before the November international break.
He is their star striker, and though they have managed without him, it is clear that against teams like the Hammers, he is needed to score the goals.
So, we have our fingers crossed for Calvert-Lewin and hope to see Richarlison next weekend against a poor Watford side.
In other Everton news, we look at how the Toffees lost against West Ham in our latest tactical analysis.
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