Dominic Calvert-Lewin is set to start as Everton host Sporting Lisbon this afternoon.
The striker made his comeback in the Toffees’ behind-closed-doors friendly against Monza earlier this week and will now get another run out at Goodison Park.
Calvert-Lewin’s recent injury record has hampered his time on Merseyside and was most recently sidelined following a hamstring problem that he picked up in their penultimate game of the previous season against Wolves.
The ‘fantastic’ 26-year-old had missed most of Everton’s pre-season schedule but had claimed to have been working extremely hard to get back to full fitness this summer and it now looks like he could be available to face Fulham next weekend.
Calvert-Lewin’s inclusion in the team today suggests that it could well be him leading the line in their Premier League opener, while Neal Maupay takes his place on the bench yet again.
Meanwhile, Arnaut Danjuma has been left out of the squad altogether after it was reported that he had picked up a minor knock and was left out of training yesterday. However, it was believed to just be precautionary and the Dutchman could make his return next week.
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Dominic Calvert-Lewin ‘will score goals’ for Everton
Duncan Ferguson has recently praised Dominic Calvert-Lewin and has claimed the striker can have a huge impact on Everton’s success if he stays fit this season.
Speaking to the Liverpool Echo, the former coach said: “He’s had a real tough run, hasn’t he? A real tough run.
“He’s a wonderful player, and when he is healthy, he scores goals, and if Everton can get him fit and healthy, believe me, he will score goals.
“They have absolutely missed him. They have not been able to replace him, and he is a big miss for them.
“Dominic is a great kid, and he will be back banging in the goals if he gets back on that pitch, and that will be the big thing for Everton this year.”