Everton supporters have been reacting to a claim that Orel Mangala has suffered a serious injury.
There have been positive feelings on Merseyside for the past couple of weeks with David Moyes overseeing back-to-back wins in the Premier League.
Everton have moved six points clear of the relegation zone, and fans are feeling more optimistic now.
But it might be that there will be some bumps in the road from this point onwards.
That’s because Moyes is now dealing with an injury crisis, with both Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Orel Mangala having to go off in the game with Brighton.
Calvert-Lewin was withdrawn in the early stages and replaced by Beto, while Mangala went off after jolting his knee around 15 minutes from the end.
Earlier this week Mangala shared a cryptic message amid his injury blow, which may well have hinted that he’s facing a long time out.
And that does appear to be the case.
Last night, it was claimed Mangala has suffered serious knee ligament damage. As a result, Everton and Lyon are now in talks about the player’s future.
Everton fans keen for Orel Mangala permanent transfer in summer despite serious injury
They say to never fall in love with a loan player.
It’s been a tough old season for Everton, but Mangala has put in some really good performances in midfield and has been a fairly popular figure with the fans.
People are dismayed about his injury setback and the fact he won’t play again this season.
But some believe that Everton still ought to look at making him a permanent signing in the summer.
A chance for James Garner
The news about Mangala is a huge blow for Everton, with the star having quietly impressed during a difficult season.
It remains to be seen what will happen with him, but this now potentially opens the door for James Garner to get a run in the team.
Garner made his long-awaited comeback against Brighton and may well be some Moyes sees as the man to accompany Idrissa Gueye in the engine room.
But a new signing could also be made.
It’s been reported Chelsea expect Everton to make a move for Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall.
And the Toffees’ luck may be in, as Dewsbury-Hall is now said to be keen to leave Chelsea.
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