Everton boss Carlo Ancelotti has explained why Andre Gomes has been named on the bench for today’s game with Arsenal.
The Blues manager was keen for Gomes, returning to the squad after an horrific ankle injury, to start at the Emirates Stadium.
But after Ancelotti held talks with Gomes, it was decided the Portuguese midfielder could start the match among the substitutes and, hopefully, be introduced at some point.
Ancelotti said: "I spoke with André, he was not so comfortable to start. It was a big injury, but now he is ready.
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"Another week does not matter – maybe he can be involved today. He is in good condition, the most important thing is he is ready."
Ancelotti also explained why Lucas Digne is not in the squad, with the defender suffering a muscle strain.
The boss said: "Digne had a problem during the week and tried to train yesterday but was not confident, so I preferred to leave him at home to train and be ready for the next game.
