Date published: Thursday 15th April 2021 4:21 – News Desk
Carlo Ancelotti says Everton striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin will miss their clash against Tottenham on Friday.
The Englishman, who is the Toffees’ top goalscorer this season, will remain out with an abductor injury.
The problem kept him out of their goalless draw with Brighton at the start of the week.
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Everton hopes will be boosted by the return of keeper Jordan Pickford. He’s returned from an abdominal injury and is among a quartet of players fit to return against Tottenham.
Midfielders Allan and Andre Gomes are also available, alongside forward Joshua King.
Speaking at a pre-match press conference, Ancelotti said: “To have these kind of injuries all at the same time, it is more difficult. [But] the squad is better [for Friday] and I think we can compete against Tottenham.
“Of course, the absence of Dominic, it is important, but I think in front we have options, and we were able to play without Dominic some games and do well.”
Abdoulaye Doucoure and Jean-Philippe Gbamin join Calvert-Lewin on the sidelines. The latter will miss the rest of the campaign after picking up a knee problem.
Speaking about Gbamin, Ancelotti added: “The plan for him is to be back at the start of the new season. The news is that he doesn’t need surgery but he has to stay out at least eight weeks and so this season will be finished for him.
“I have to say he is a strong guy. He has a strong character. He was able to manage the injuries he had last season. And he will be stronger after these unlucky situations.”
Everton’s game against Jose Mourinho’s men could play a vital part in deciding the Premier League’s top six.
Both teams are vying for either a Champions League or Europa League place, with the latter more likely.
Spurs are in seventh with 49 points from 31 games.
Everton are in eighth after gaining 48 points from one match less.
However, the Toffees have picked up just two points from their last four games.
Ancelotti continued: “We have to be able to manage, to continue to fight, because the fight for a European position is there and we have to fight until the last game.
“We have absolutely to get a result against Tottenham, and then we have important games against teams that are fighting there: Arsenal, Aston Villa, West Ham. It is open for everyone, but difficult for everyone.
“I think it [Friday’s match] is vital, but I think all the eight games we have to play are vital.”