Francis Okoronkwo confirms surgery on hamstring injury as Everton future hangs in the balance

Francis Okoronkwo has confirmed he has undergone surgery following a hamstring injury picked up while out on loan at Doncaster Rovers away from Everton.

The forward had looked to kickstart his professional career at the Vikings, but just five games into his winter loan, his season was ended.

Okoronkwo had started life in League One in fine fashion, scoring once and assisting another in just three league appearances.

However, the 21-year-old faces a tough road ahead after he provided an update on his recovery from a hamstring injury after returning to Everton.

Francis Okoronkwo shares update on injury

Okoronkwo has gone under the knife to address the hamstring issue he picked up while out on loan. However, that only appears to be the start of his recovery.

The Everton academy player has said via an Instagram story that this was just the "first surgery".

Okoronkwo's social media post suggests that there is still at least another procedure to go as he completes his rehabilitation.

The centre-forward's admission hints towards his injury being quite serious, putting even more doubt into his future in Merseyside.

Okoronkwo's contract is set to end at the end of the season, and signs are pointing towards him departing the Toffees after five years at Everton.

Francis Okoronkwo was destined to be Everton's striker solution

The news of Okoronkwo's injury was heartbreaking for the young forward, and now that he is seemingly having to have multiple surgeries, it does not soften the blow.

If things had all worked out, the 21-year-old could very well have been the Blues' answer to their number nine woes.

In 2023, after signing his new contract with Everton, former sporting director Kevin Thelwell was full of praise for the talent.

Speaking at the time, Thelwell said: "We’re delighted to have Francis extend his deal. He’s a very promising young player, and he’s progressed well since joining the club.

“As a striker, he’s really well-rounded, and he’s already earned valuable experience at a young age, so we look forward to watching him continue his development at Everton."

Unfortunately, Okoronkwo will now land himself among a long list of "what-ifs" at Finch Farm.

However, everyone associated with Everton will be hoping he can put his career back on track following his recovery.

Whether the Toffees offer to help him do so remains to be seen but as things stand, he will be a free agent in the summer.