An explanation for the absence of Dominic Calvert-Lewin from the Everton squad to take on Manchester City this evening has been provided.
And, in a blow for all associated with the Toffees, it has been confirmed that DCL has picked up a fresh injury problem.
Speaking ahead of the action getting underway on Merseyside in short order, Frank Lampard was inevitably drawn on the whereabouts of his star striker, amid a season to forget to date.
And the Everton boss went on to reveal that Calvert-Lewin has suffered an 'adductor injury', which is expected to keep him sidelined for the coming week, and potentially beyond:
Key clash at both ends
News of the latest blow to their personnel ranks of course couldn't come at a worse time for Everton.
This comes with the Blues, in the midst of a tense battle against relegation from the Premier League, set to face off against the might of champions Manchester City on Saturday.
Pep Guardiola's Citizens, currently sitting pretty atop the English top-flight, will too be eyeing a bounce-back result at Goodison Park, after slipping to just a 3rd league defeat of the term at the hands of Tottenham last time out.
Everton, on the other hand, are no doubt aware that a loss of their own on Saturday would leave them perilously close to the drop, just a point clear of 18th-placed Burnley.
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