Everton will host Newcastle United at Goodison Park tomorrow night after the clash was postponed earlier in the year due to virus outbreaks, and Frank Lampard will be hoping his team can pick up their first win after four consecutive losses, however, he could be without one of his star players.
What's the word?
The Toffees boss took to his pre-match press conference to give an update on the availability of Dominic Calvert-Lewin following his unexpected absence in the defeat to Wolves last weekend, and it could be a hit or miss situation for the striker.
Speaking to the media, Lampard wasn't too confident about the forward's chances, saying:
"Dominic trained lightly yesterday, off the back of not feeling, so we'll see how he is again this afternoon, and look towards the squad tomorrow."
"When it's your job, and profession to be on the edge, then there's a limit in physical form, that's why we have to assess it closely."
Supporters will be worried
If the striker isn't available to play on further assessment ahead of the Newcastle clash at Goodison Park, there is no doubt that supporters will be worried about their chances of finding the back of the net against Eddie Howe's side, as the striker is someone they count on to deliver in big moments for the side.
With the club firmly in a relegation battle, only safe from the drop zone by goal difference, seizing the opportunity to put distance between themselves and the bottom three will be of the highest priority in this game in hand that Everton have over their relegation competitors. Thus, losing one of their most prolific attacking players could be a huge threat to their success in doing so.
Calvert-Lewin has only scored three times this season, but is by a stretch their biggest goal threat in the team, bagging 56 goals for the Toffees during his time at the club so far. Having him on the pitch to work alongside Richarlison would always be seen as the best option for Everton in a starting line-up as the pair have the deepest connection in the attacking third compared to other players.
Lampard will be hoping that the 25-year-old will be back to his best following his rest period whilst he has been recovering from illness and will be able to give a fresh perspective in the attacking line following another defeat against Wolves by offering goals in the home game tomorrow evening.