He was on the edge’ – Dwight McNeil injury latest after Everton key man limps off

Sean Dyche was quizzed on the fitness of Dwight McNeil after he came off injured in Everton’s draw with Fulham

LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - OCTOBER 26: Dwight McNeil of Everton is checked on by Calvin Bassey of Fulham during the Premier League match between Everton FC and Fulham FC at Goodison Park on October 26, 2024 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Lewis Storey/Getty Images)

Dwight McNeil of Everton is checked on by Calvin Bassey of Fulham during the Premier League match at Goodison Park(Image: Lewis Storey/Getty Images)

Everton are sweating on the fitness of Dwight McNeil after he limped off during the 1-1 draw with Fulham. The 24-year-old received treatment in the away side’s penalty box before hobbling off and shaking his head when Sean Dyche asked him whether he was fit to continue.

The issue was yet to be assessed in the hours after the final whistle but Dyche said he was hopeful it was not serious.

Asked whether he had any news of the injury following the match, the Blues boss said: “Not yet, not yet. He obviously had to come off… he was on the edge so hopefully it is not too serious.”

McNeil has played a significant role in Everton’s season to date, producing some of the standout moments of the campaign.

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Three goals – including stunning efforts against Crystal Palace and Aston Villa – means he leads the club’s Premier League scoring charts while he has also provided several assists, including the pass from which Michael Keane scored against Ipswich Town last week.

McNeil is a player known for his fitness and resilience, some of the attributes that have made him integral to Dyche’s planning.

Should he face any time out of action it will add to the problems in the Blues’ midfield and attack.

Central midfielders James Garner and Tim Iroegbunam each face extended absences with back and foot issues respectively, while forwards Armando Broja (achilles) and Youssef Chermiti (toe) are also fighting to overcome long term injuries.

The late introduction of Jarrad Branthwaite against Fulham did at least confirm the centre-back had returned to fitness after a quad issue.

With Nathan Patterson and Seamus Coleman alongside him on the bench, Dyche had a full defence to choose from heading into the match for the first time this season.