Everton: Andre Gomes update emerges from Finch Farm ahead of Nottingham Forest clash
Everton could welcome back Andre Gomes as early as this weekend as the forgotten midfielder has been spotted taking part in training.
Gomes has been named in just one matchday squad this season – against Fulham in August – having struggled with another injury problem.
The former Portugal international was not thought to be in contention for a return to action anytime soon [Ben Dinnery].
However, in an update shared on Sky Sports News on Thursday [30 November, 11:30], Vinnie O’Connor confirmed Gomes is back in training.
“Andre Gomes is out there as well – he’s not played a game for the club this season,” O’Connor said live from Finch Farm.
“His last game came in the famous 3-2 comeback win against Crystal Palace under Frank Lampard.”
That memorable victory over Palace was some 18 months ago, with Gomes having spent the 2022-23 campaign on loan at Lille.
The 30-year-old has been incredibly unlucky with injuries, but it may well be that he is given a chance to prove himself now he is back.
Amadou Onana remains doubtful for this weekend’s trip to Nottingham Forest, and that could see Gomes take a place on the substitutes’ bench.
It is more likely that Gomes will first play a game or two for the Under-21s, but this is certainly a step in the right direction.
While he has been written off by many, it must be remembered that Gomes is a £22million midfielder who is still aged just 30.
Incoming transfer activity seems unlikely in January, so getting Gomes back up to speed could be a huge boost for Sean Dyche in what is shaping up to be another relegation dogfight.
In other Everton news, Goodison chiefs will be on alert as a date has been set for another Premier League financial breaches case.