Dominic Calvert-Lewin is still in line to be involved in Everton's clash with Southampton after the international break.
The ECHO understands the Blues are being cautious with the striker after he felt some tightness in a session at Finch Farm. However, it's not believed to be being treated as an "injury" as such, and he could still be in the squad when Frank Lampard's side return to action at the beginning of October.
The 25-year-old has been missing for the opening matches of the 2022/23 campaign so far after sustaining a knee issue in training ahead of the first game of the season against Chelsea at Goodison Park. The forward has been kept on the sidelines since then, although he was back in sessions with his teammates earlier this month.
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Calvert-Lewin was left out of the squad to face West Ham United at the weekend with Lampard having originally hinted he could return. However, the manager made clear that the club are still being cautious with the striker.
The manager remarked: "It was my choice with Dominic given the [injury] history and the international break we have coming up. It’s a chance for him to get even fitter after a slightly complicated injury.
"We have to be cautious with him rather than take a risk because we want him for the long-term so it was more of a precaution.
"I know everyone gets excited – I get asked questions about him every press conference - but, at the same time, we have to protect him a little bit so hopefully after the international break we’ll be seeing him."
Elsewhere, Everton are waiting for updates on Nathan Patterson after the defender was stretchered off against Ukraine on Wednesday evening. The right-back has been a mainstay in the defence throughout the campaign and his issue will be assessed by the Scotland medical team.
Meanwhile Vitalii Mykolenko was left on the bench in that clash after feeling a slight issue following the Blues' clash with West Ham. However, the current hope is that isn't serious and he will continue to be monitored by Ukraine's staff.
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