Iwobi only back in February

Everton's Alex Iwobi (down) reacts after being injured during the FA Cup third round match between Manchester United and Everton in Manchester, Britain, 06 January 2023. EPA/Peter Powell

by Staff Reporter

Monday Jan 09, 2023. 17:00

Everton have confirmed that Alex Iwobi is likely to face three weeks on the sidelines as a result of the ankle injury he sustained against Manchester United in the FA Cup third round.

The Nigeria international stayed down after a sliding challenge from United left-back Tyrell Malacia and left the Old Trafford pitch on a stretcher in the 51st minute.

Speaking after his side’s 3-1 defeat on Friday, Toffees manager Frank Lampard was hopeful that the injury would not keep Iwobi out of action for an extended period.

“We hope it’s not too serious. It is an ankle ligament injury, we hope it’s a lesser one. He will have a scan tomorrow to confirm,” Lampard said in his post-match press conference.

Subsequent scans have revealed the extent of the damage and the 26-year-old attacking midfielder is only expected to make his comeback next month.

“Alex Iwobi is expected to be out for around three weeks with the ankle ligament injury sustained against Manchester United on Friday,” the club said in a statement on Sunday.

“Scan results on Saturday confirmed a lateral ligament injury that will be managed conservatively by the Club’s medical team at Finch Farm.”