Everton are set to assess Phil Jagielka after he withdrew from the England squad.
Jagielka will miss the national side’s World Cup qualifiers with Malta and Slovenia after suffering a thigh problem during training.
The Blues captain, 34, has been an ever-present for Ronald Koeman this season but could miss next weekend’s clash with Manchester City.
But Goodison Park officials remain hopeful that he will be available for the trip to the Etihad Stadium, saying the injury is ‘not thought to be too serious’.
Jagielka will return to Finch Farm in the coming days to undergo further assessments by Everton’s medical team.