Harry Diamond
Carlo Ancelotti says Andre Gomes is ‘ready to play’ again for Everton ahead of this weekend’s trip to face Arsenal.
The Portuguese international was expected to spend a lengthy period on the sidelines after suffering a horror injury against Tottenham in November, the midfielder suffering a fracture and dislocation of the ankle in distressing scenes during the 2-2 draw at Goodison Park.
The 26-year-old has since made a quicker than anticipated recovery from the problem and played for 60 minutes during a behind-closed-doors friendly at Finch Farm last weekend, just 105 days after being stretchered off against Spurs.
Ancelotti has now revealed that the midfielder is in contention to return for this weekend’s trip to face Mikel Arteta’s side, and refused to rule out the possibility of Gomes starting for Everton at the Emirates.
“He did well (in the weekend practice match), he played comfortably and without any problems and he is available, in my opinion, to play,” Ancelotti told evertontv.
“Of course, I have to speak to him about how he feels after playing his first game following a long time out. My personal opinion is he is ready to play.
“When a player has been out for a long period, I think it is better to start the game.
“He can prepare properly, (rather) than to put him on from the bench but I have to speak to him and together we can find a solution.”
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