Carlo Ancelotti says he was reluctant to leave Theo Walcott out of Everton's matchday squad in the league for a second time in a row.
Walcott was left out of the matchday 18 for the game at Crystal Palace and did not travel to Selhurst Park with the rest of the players.
Anthony Gordon was also not named in the squad but he was in London on Saturday.
Thirty-one-year-old Walcott was omitted from the squad that played West Bromwich Albion last week and was an unused substitute in the cup victory at Fleetwood on Wednesday.
Ancelotti, though, was playing down the idea that the experienced winger would leave Goodison before the transfer deadline.
And the boss says he did not enjoy telling Walcott he would not be involved.
"He was out because the rule is to bring only 18 players, so he was out of the squad," Ancelotti said.
Asked if he thought Walcott could leave before the close of the window, Ancelotti replied: "I don't think so. The problem is the competition is really high in this moment.
"Sometimes it can happen that a player, like Theo, is not involved.
"Unfortunately this is the decision I have to take and I am not absolutely happy to take this kind of decision, to leave out a player like Walcott.
"A player who is professional, serious in training and always ready."
Everton will step up their efforts to sign a central defender on loan this week, with Ancelotti adding: "We are going to have a look and we will see."
*What you like to see Walcott stay this season? Have your say in the comments section below.
