Ronald Koeman insists he does not regret omitting Oumar Niasse from Everton’s Europa League squad.
Niasse has enjoyed a surprise lease of life at Goodison Park this season since making a substitute appearance in the Carabao Cup win over Sunderland.
The Senegal striker scored in successive appearances as a substitute, first against the Black Cats and then with a brace to overcome Bournemouth.
But Niasse will miss the Blues’ Europa League game with Apollon Limassol on Thursday due to being omitted from the finalised squad for the group stages.
Koeman, however, stands by his original decision to leave the former Lokamotiv Moscow striker out of his 25-man list.
He said: “We had to make that decision a long time ago. At that time, his situation was not the situation it is now.
“In life, you don’t get a second chance and you have to decide. The decision was made also [because of] other players, who are not available.
“Maybe in several weeks, yes, [they will be back] and you make your decision.”
Meanwhile Koeman admitted that Phil Jagielka and Michael Keane are doubtful for Everton’s game with Burnley.
The defensive duo sat out last weekend’s 2-1 win over Bournemouth with their respective hamstring and foot injuries.
Keane continued his recovery by training separately from Koeman’s side as they prepared for Thursday’s Europa League tie with Apollon.
And the Everton manager concedes that both the England international and Jagielka will miss the Cypriot’s visit and potentially that of Burnley on Sunday.
“Keane and Jagielka are out for tomorrow and doubtful for Sunday,” said Koeman.
“Rest is the same list – total [of] seven players are unavailable for tomorrow.”