Sean Dyche shares Lewis Dobbin update after watching Everton sensation play for U21s
Everton boss Sean Dyche is hopeful of involving Lewis Dobbin in the first team “sooner rather than later” as the young forward builds his fitness up following an ankle injury.
The 21-year-old missed around six weeks with the issue but has recently returned to action with Everton’s Under-21s side – and Dyche was in attendance to track his progress at his latest game.
However, the Toffees’ manager also suggested he would allow Dobbin to reach his best levels again before asking him to perform for the senior side.
Speaking to Everton’s official website ahead of their clash with Luton Town, Dyche said: “It’s still early. [Dobbin’s] had around six weeks out and he played around 65 minutes the other day – I was at the game.
“We’d like to try to get him involved sooner rather than later. Just before he got injured he had a real chance of playing as we thought he was doing very well but, equally, we’ve got to be fair to him and his true fitness to deliver if and when he gets on the pitch.”
Everton fans will hope to see exciting talent Lewis Dobbin again this season
Dobbin is arguably the most exciting young talent Everton possess who has not quite broken into the first team yet.
Jarrad Branthwaite has established himself as a regular starter this term after returning from a loan spell at PSV, and Dobbin will be eager to follow in the central defender’s footsteps.
The likelihood of the young winger being involved in the first-team has increased now that Everton are mathematically safe from relegation – and his inclusion will be welcomed by fans who are keen to see the Toffees shake off their attacking shackles.
Dobbin featured in each of Everton’s first three games of the season, but he was not seen again until late November as Dyche attempted to steady the ship after a difficult start to the campaign.
He made a handful of sporadic appearances – mostly as a substitute – across the Premier League, FA Cup and League Cup before suffering the ankle injury that curtailed his progress.
Now that he is returning to fitness, fans will be keen to see their bright young prospect pick up where he left off.
In other Everton news, there has been a takeover update as 777 Partners’ rivals are nearly ready to hijack their Goodison Park bid.
For more Everton news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.