Huge blow for Dyche as Everton talisman major doubt for Merseyside derby

Everton have been handed a huge blow ahead of the fierce Merseyside derby as Dominic Calvert-Lewin is a major doubt for the game. Sean Dyche faces another big test against local rivals Liverpool after a triumph against league leaders Arsenal.

When Dyche took over the reins at Goodison Park, he was quick to recognize Calvert-Lewin’s situation and said that making his body fit is going to be key as the Toffees prepare for a relegation scrap. A win over the Gunners did lift the spirits but it is early days and work is not done yet.

Calvert-Lewin came was substituted in the 62nd minute as Neal Maupay came on against Arsenal. Dyche later revealed that the Englishman was taken off as a precaution as the striker was nursing a hamstring issue, as per Liverpool ECHO.

"We will have to wait and see. I don’t think it is a drastic one but he needs to settle it down so we will probably give it two days before we scan it just as a precaution at this stage."

Everton striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin a doubt for Merseyside derby

Calvert-Lewin’s performances have been substandard this term as injuries have troubled him and affected his confidence but he is still the best forward in the team and EFC relies on him up top. Once he starts playing regularly and gets in a run of games, Calvert-Lewin will find the back of the net and help the Toffees in the survival battle.

As per reports, Calvert-Lewin is now a major doubt for the derby against Liverpool on Monday night. The player has not returned to training after feeling tightness in his hamstring during the 1-0 win over Arsenal. The 25 year old did undergo a scan but no major injury was discovered, however, the striker continues to feel discomfort.

Dyche might now have a big selection decision to make if Calvert-Lewin is out. The 51 year old might decide to deploy Neal Maupay or possibly hand out a huge opportunity to Ellis Simms. There is a chance for Calvert-Lewin to still feature as two days still remain before the derby on Monday.

Maupay was decent in his cameo against Arsenal after attracting a lot of criticism for his failure to make any impact since his summer switch to Goodison Park. A loan move for Simms was blocked by Dyche, perhaps, for situations like these, where the 22 year old can come in handy and give the Toffees much needed cover in the strike force.