Dominic Calvert-Lewin is set to miss Everton’s clash with Leeds United.
Calvert-Lewin was withdrawn from his side’s win over Arsenal as a precaution but subsequently unavailable for Monday’s 2-0 loss at the hands of Liverpool.
It was later revealed that the England international has been struggling with a hamstring problem which left the Blues worryingly light on attacking options.
Sean Dyche has now confirmed that Calvert-Lewin, 25, is expected to be absent for a second consecutive game in Saturday’s relegation six-pointer.
“He is working diligently, I think he is having an up-and-down time,” said the Everton manager.
“The challenge we have got is not just to get the injury fit – it is to get him genuinely fit so his body doesn’t break down.
“I think I might have to give him extra time for that and actually slow that down to make sure because we don’t want a player for one game, we want a player for as many as possible.
“That is going to be the right challenge for me and my staff, to make sure we give him the chance to be really fit, if you like, rather than sort of getting him back for the sake of one game.
“So it is a tough call that one. Hopefully, we will see how it is settling this week.”