Unsworth expects improved performance after injured players return

CAIRO – 24 November 2017: Everton are awaiting the return of Yannick Bolasie, James McCarthy and Ross Barklay from the injury that prevented them from participating with the team for some time.

Everton coach David Unsworth said that the three players were on the verge of regaining their fitness and returning to the squad.

Yannick Bolasie has been out of action for nearly a year because of a knee injury, but he took part in the team's first training session on Wednesday while McCarthy and Barklay are expected to recover from two thigh injuries within the next few weeks.
“Yannick trained with us this morning for the first time,” Unsworth told reporters ahead of Thursday’s Europa League game against Atalanta.

“We're just gradually integrating him back into the first team set-up. He's a top player, a proven Premier League player and he's got great pace –something that we need,” Unsworth added.

"To get those proven Premier League players back into the team and the squad will be a big plus for us. McCarthy is a couple of weeks away, Ross maybe a couple of weeks away as well," he said.

Defender Mason Holgate has yet to recover from a groin strain, while his teammate Phil Jagielka and midfielder Morgan Schneiderlin are expected to be ready before Sunday's clash against Southampton.