Abdoulaye Doucoure has appeared to have handed Everton a huge fitness boost.
The 28-year-old has been a pivotal part of Rafa Benitez’s side this season, scoring two and getting four assists in eight Premier League matches.
However, the Frenchman suffered a stress response in his foot in the 1-0 home defeat to West Ham earlier this month and has been sidelined since.
Initial indications suggested an operation was possibly being lined up for the midfielder, but Everton confirmed that he would not need to go under the knife.
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And now Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano has claimed that Doucoure will be back earlier than expected and could return to action after the international break.
He wrote on Twitter: “Abdoulaye Doucoure injury update. [The] Everton midfielder will be back earlier than expected.
“He’s preparing his comeback in four/four and half weeks, after the international break.
"Finally some good news for Rafa Benitez.”
And reacting to the claim on social media, Doucoure commented on Romano’s tweet with a blue love heart, a muscle arm and two raised hands emojis.
Speaking at the time of his injury, Doucoure said: “I'm obviously very disappointed with this bad news but it could have been a lot worse if I hadn't stopped in time so that is the good news but know that I am very determined and optimistic to come back sooner and better because the season is far from over.”
Everton are back in Premier League action away to Wolves on Monday night before they welcome Tottenham to Goodison Park before the November international break takes place.
