Everton will not be looking to sign a midfielder to replace Jean-Philippe Gbamin next season, Carlo Ancelotti has confirmed.
Last month the Blues boss said the club had been weighing up reinforcements in that position but it all hinged on the fitness of Gbamin.
Since Ancelotti made the remarks, Gbamin has recovered from a long-standing Achilles problem to make his return to action.
But having come off the bench to play against Crystal Palace earlier this month, the 25-year-old's season came to an end when he suffered a knee injury in training ahead of the trip to Brighton.
Gbamin has avoided the need for surgery but will not be back until next season yet Ancelotti says the club will not be dipping into the market for cover for the luckless midfielder.
“No I think that we are not going to replace him because we are sure he has the quality and the potential that he can play," the Everton boss said.
"Before I came, it [Gbamin's £25m signing from Mainz] was a great investment from the club and we still have trust because, honestly, he suffered a lot of injury but we have confidence when he is back next season he can be of help to us."
Gbamin played only twice after joining Everton before a thigh injury stopped him in his tracks.
And as he closed in on a return to action during the Premier League's re-start last summer, he suffered an Achilles problem which had kept him out until he played against Palace.
But his latest set-back means he will play no further part this term.
“Before this time, of the injuries, he played at least 55, 60 games without problem," Ancelotti said.
"Unfortunately it can happen - personally I was out for two years when I was 20 and I had a fantastic career afterwards.
"It is a difficult moment for him but we are confident he will be back soon and in fantastic condition."
