Youssef Chermiti is set to miss the start of Everton’s new season.
Chermiti enjoyed a productive pre-season campaign for Sean Dyche’s side which began with two goals and an assist against Sligo Rovers last month.
But the Portuguese forward was a notable absentee for the Blues’ win over Preston last weekend as Dyche confirmed he had suffered an injury setback.
“Youssef, unfortunately, is going to be a longer one,” said the Everton manager.
“That one is a bit of a blow because he’s done great in pre-season and looked sharp. It’s going to be a bit longer I’m afraid to say.
“We’ll have to wait and see but it’s certainly not going to be a couple of weeks, it will be longer than that.”
Chermiti shared a picture on social media of himself in a hospital bed, thanking fans for their goodwill messages before adding “I’ll be back soon”.
It has since been confirmed that the 20-year-old underwent ‘minor’ surgery for a foot problem sustained during training at Finch Farm last week.
“Everton can confirm Youssef Chermiti has undergone minor surgery on a foot injury,” read a club statement.
“The Blues striker sustained the problem during a training session at Finch Farm.
“The 20-year-old will now begin rehabilitation under the care of Everton’s medical team.”