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Wednesday's newspapers are filled with tributes for former Everton manager Walter Smith, who passed away on Tuesday at the age of 73.

Current Blues boss Rafa Benitez described the Scot as “legendary and highly-respected”, while former striker Kevin Campbell described Smith as "the reason why I went to Everton in the first place."

Meanwhile, the Liverpool Echo's Sports Editor, Dave Prentice, wrote a touching piece about his personal experiences with Smith.

Elsewhere, football journalist Fabrizio Romano reports Everton midfielder Abdoulaye Doucoure will return from his foot injury earlier than expected, with the Frenchman said to be aiming to come back after next month's international break.

And finally, according to Spanish outlet Fichajes, the Toffees are rumoured to be in battle with Tottenham Hotspur for the signature of Stoke City centre-back Harry Souttar.