Boss Provides Tosun Update Ahead Of Norwich Clash

Marco Silva says Cenk Tosun is fit to face Norwich City at Goodison Park on Saturday.

The forward was handed his first start of the season in Everton's 2-1 victory over Southampton prior to the international break but then sat out Turkey's Euro 2020 qualifiers against Iceland and Andorra due to a groin problem.

However, Tosun - who came off the bench to earn a 1-1 draw against Tottenham Hotspur on Everton's last Goodison outing - is in contention to feature against the Canaries. 

The news is less encouraging for Fabian Delph and Bernard, who remain major doubts for the contest.

Delph pulled out of last week's England squad due to a hamstring injury, while Bernard has not played since damaging a knee against Brighton and Hove Albion last month. 

Asked for his team news at his pre-match press conference on Friday, Silva said: "With Fabian, it's possible he's not in condition for tomorrow's match. He's still a big doubt.

"Like you know, Bernard is in the same situation. He has started working with the team and it's possible next week we'll have good news about him. But, for tomorrow's match, as well, it's the same situation [as Delph].

"Cenk Tosun is okay."

 

Silva was also asked for an update on the progress of midfielders Jean-Philippe Gbamin and Andre Gomes in their recoveries from long-term quadriceps and ankle injuries respectively.

The Blues boss confirmed he still expects to be without Ivory Coast international Gbamin into the new year. He retains hope Gomes will be in action again this season.

"For sure, Gbamin will not be back before [New Year] and let's see when he'll be available," said Silva.

"Him and Andre will be long-term injured and we don't have a date for either.

"With Gomes, it's step by step. We'll be really patient with him.

"He was with us today again, he's here every day with his teammates doing his rehab.

"It will be a slow recovery but we knew that. Let's see each month how he is and possibly he will play this season, but we never know.

"Let's see how he reacts. Now is a time for us to be patient with him and to be supportive as well."