Sean Dyche believes Dele Alli can still have a future at Everton – but only if he does ‘the right things’.
The former England international has returned from his truncated season-long loan spell with Besiktas, which was ended by suffering a hip tendon injury.
Alli is currently in London awaiting a specialist’s verdict on the problem, which could require surgery, as his Goodison Park career hangs in the balance.
This week, pictures of the 27-year-old surfaced showing him with a balloon in his mouth while sat next to what appeared to be canisters of ‘laughing gas’.
But Dyche insists that he will reserve judgement on Alli, who has 14 months remaining on his current deal with the Blues, until the playmaker is again fit.
“There isn’t anything other than getting him fit,” said the Everton manager.
“I’ve heard all the noise, I’ve heard all the opinions and I’m pretty sure you’re aware that I like to make my own. But he needs to get fit.
“I’ve met him but I haven’t seen him train, I haven’t seen him play for Everton. I haven’t seen him train with us every day.
“Before we worry about all of that it’s important that he gets himself properly fit and – if he needs an op or doesn’t – make sure his fitness is good and make sure he’s well and ready to go.”
He added: “I got the sense that he wants to be back playing football and playing well. First thing first is get the injury right. You can’t do anything when you’re injured.
“As regards football, anything else is down to him. He’s 27, he’s pretty well travelled in the football world and what he has achieved at a young age.
“Some of it is common sense. Do the right things – and you know what the right things are.”