According to the Lancashire Telegraph, Everton teenager Jarrad Branthwaite is set for ankle surgery.
They report that the ankle ligament problem has ended his season out on loan at Blackburn Rovers.
He suffered the injury in training last month and is set to have the operation to sort the problem.
The 18-year-old will hope to be fighting fit for the start of pre-season at Goodison Park.
He has returned to Everton and will begin his rehabilitation there after the surgery today.
The central defender joined Blackburn in January, looking to get regular first time football in the Championship.
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He made ten appearances at Ewood Park, making a flying start before falling out of favour somewhat.
That experience will have made him stronger and so will the battle back from this season-ending injury.
Everton do have plenty of central defensive options but Branthwaite is one for the future.
Once he’s fit, he may well look to go out on loan again, maybe getting a full season of regular football under his belt.
Nigel Martyn speaking to Everton News: Archive