Everton midfielder Ross Barkley has undergone surgery on a groin problem.
Barkley missed out on the Blues’ pre-season trips to Tanzania and Holland as Ronald Koeman’s side began their preparations for the new campaign.
The Wavertree-born player is now expected to spend around four weeks out of action with the injury, ruling him out of the Premier League opener with Stoke City.
He will also miss Everton’s Europa League double header, which begins next Thursday with a first leg tie against either SK Brann or Ruzomberok.
Barkley’s future at Goodison Park remains clouded in uncertainty amid continued interest from Tottenham, who are said to be plotting a £30 million approach.