Everton star Dominic Calvert-Lewin says he hopes to make his return from injury on Boxing Day when Everton visit Burnley in the Premier League.
The 24-year-old was speaking to Everton-mad youngster Dylan, who enjoyed an early Christmas surprise when he was called unexpectedly by striker.
Dylan, whose family are all huge Blues’ fans, is recovering at home after recently undergoing nine hours of emergency surgery to remove a brain aneurism, which has left him needing rehabilitation to assist with his speech and eyesight.
And instead of a scheduled call with his physio at Alder Hey Children’s Hospital - and with the help of Club partners USM - he was instead faced with his Everton hero, as part of the club's True Blue Crimbo campaign to reward deserving youngsters who have endured a tough year.
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Calvert-Lewin has been sidelined for the majority of the season through injury, but still has three goals in three appearances this term.
When speaking to Dylan and his father via video call, the England international says he hopes to be back in action against Burnley.
"I'll hopefully back training with the team next week and hopefully play Boxing Day," he said.
"I think so [the longest he's been out], I've never really suffered with muscle injuries. I did a bit as a kid but it’s the first time my body has really let me down.
“It’s difficult because footy is my purpose. It’s been difficult at times.
“To get so close to coming back and get injured again, that’s why it’s been so difficult this time around.”
Everton’s True Blue Crimbo campaign has again been a hit with fans, despite again being unable to visit Alder Hey in person due to the ongoing pandemic.
Calvert-Lewin also had a Christmas treat for Dylan and his Everton-mad family, as Blues’ partner USM gifted VIP hospitality tickets to the upcoming home game against Brighton and Hove Albion in the New Year.
The forward added: “It was great to surprise Dylan and brighten his day a little bit after he's had such a tough few months.
“He's an incredibly brave young lad with a really positive and supportive family and it was lovely to see him looking better, at home and excited for Christmas.”
“It's always nice to give something back to the fans, especially at this time of the year, and I hope Dylan enjoys being treated at the Brighton game because he definitely deserves it.”
