Sean Dyche has suggested that Youssef Chermiti could be left out for Everton this weekend.
Speaking to BBC Sport, the Toffees boss admitted that it would be a ‘surprise’ if the striker is ready to slot straight into the starting line-up ahead of their clash with Aston Villa.
Chermiti arrived at Goodison Park from Sporting Lisbon in a £17 million deal last week after enjoying a stellar breakthrough campaign in Portugal last season, making his debut in January before scoring three goals and providing two assists – as well as making five appearances in the Europa League before his 19th birthday.
Despite coming to an agreement with Chermiti weeks ago, Everton took a while to get the deal over the line and they may now wait even longer before handing the teenager his debut.
The Portugal U-19 international was understandably absent from their opening day defeat to Fulham only 24 hours after signing for the club, though he could miss out on their trip to Villa Park as well.
Youssef Chermiti isn’t ‘ready’ for the Premier League quite yet
Everton have limited attacking options after Dwight McNeil was sidelined in pre-season, while Jack Harrison is expected to be out until October after arriving on Merseyside this week. Demarai Gray also looks set to leave for Fulham, while Tom Cannon is closing in on a move to the Championship.
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While the Toffees are yet to bring in a number nine to challenge Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Neal Maupay, Dyche will resist the urge to throw Chermiti straight in at the deep end.
“He is a young player and needs to get properly, Premier League fit,” Dyche told BBC Sport after Everton’s behind-closed-doors match against Manchester United.
“He is a talent and we have to develop him. If he surprises us and is ready straight away, it is great – but he is here to continue to learn his game.”