Dele Alli officially left Everton last summer, but Toffees fans will surely love the latest update about the player this evening.
In January 2022, Everton signed Dele on loan from Tottenham Hotspur and the hope was that the player would be able to recapture the form that made him one of England’s best players.
Sadly it didn’t work out for Dele, who also had a loan spell with Besiktas.
The attacking midfielder’s contract with Everton expired last summer, but he remained at Finch Farm to train, and then in December he left.
Everton were actually open to a new contract for Dele, but ultimately that didn’t materialise.
It was then reported that Dele agreed a deal with Italian club Como, who are managed by Premier League legend Cesc Fabregas.
And this evening is a big occasion for the former Everton man.
Former Everton star Dele Alli named on bench for Como 1907 for the first time
Tonight, Dele could take to the pitch for the first time for Como, with whom he signed an 18-month contract.
It is the first time he has made a matchday squad for 735 days, and Evertonians and football fans everywhere will certainly be hoping to see him get on and make an impact.
Como are playing away at the Stadio Olimpico against AS Roma, and are looking to get back to winning ways after losing their last three matches.
But Como have done very well so far this term after gaining promotion to Serie A for the 2024/25 campaign. They currently sit 13th.
That said, they are only five points clear of the relegation zone, with the Italian top-flight pretty tight at the moment.
Dele debut for Como may be unlikely against AS Roma after Cesc Fabregas verdict
While many supporters will be hoping to catch a glimpse of Dele tonight for the first time in a long time, the chances of that actually happening may be slim.
Last month, Cesc Fabregas did warn that Dele’s fitness levels need work since he has not played for months.
He said (via Daily Mail): “He’s working off the pitch at the moment. I don’t want to put extra pressure on him, he hasn’t played for months.
“From (Monday) he will be at full capacity with the group, after the personalised work of the last few weeks.
“He needs time, I spoke to him and I was clear with him, we are here to help him. We believe we can do it.
“We need patience to see him back on the pitch: please, let’s stay calm. The last few months will be used to get back in shape for next season.”
So perhaps that won’t be the night for Dele. But certainly, it is so good to see him back as part of a matchday squad, and Evertonians and fans everywhere will hope he eventually thrives in Italy.
Receive a digest of our best Everton content each week direct to your mailbox
