Michael Keane injury update emerges ahead of Everton clash v Arsenal
Everton defender Michael Keane is an injury doubt for the Arsenal game on Saturday, according to Dr Rajpal Brar.
The injury expert claims that the 31-year-old is at the stage of needing a late fitness test ahead of the 14 December clash at the Emirates Stadium.
Jake O'Brien is another potential option Dyche could turn to against Mikel Arteta's side, given their proficiency from set pieces.
Speaking exclusively to Goodison News, Brar, a specialist in Physical Therapy and Sports Scientist, said about Keane: "This sounds like a Grade I ligament injury based on the timeline and based on manager comments, does sound like he is at the phase of a late fitness test as long as he is able to train and is within the acceptable discomfort parameters.
"He still is a doubt for the weekend as we’re not privy to how well he’s trained over the past few days."
Michael Keane has not played for Everton since November
The 2 November loss at Southampton was the last time Keane was spotted in a Toffees jersey so along with his fitness, his match sharpness will also be at a low.
Starting him seems to be out of the question with Jarrad Branthwaite back but Dyche may need reinforcements from the bench over the weekend.
It remains to be seen if Keane is fit enough to make the bench or if O'Brien may be in line for some minutes.
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