A potential injury scare for Everton's Iliman Ndiaye has been averted, providing a much-needed boost to the team's prospects. The winger, a key player for both club and country, was a concern after an ankle injury suffered during Senegal's victory over Benin. However, the latest update is positive, with Ndiaye named on the bench for Senegal's last 16 clash with Sudan in the Africa Cup of Nations.
This news will come as a relief to Everton manager David Moyes, who was already dealing with a depleted squad due to a string of injuries. The likes of Michael Keane, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, Seamus Coleman, Carlos Alcaraz, and Jarrad Branthwaite have all been sidelined, with only Keane potentially returning for the upcoming match against Brentford.
Given Senegal's strong performance in the tournament so far, it was expected that Ndiaye and his teammate Idrissa Gueye would miss Everton's fixtures this week. But the uncertainty surrounding Ndiaye's health was a cause for concern for Moyes, who closely monitored the situation. Despite missing training on Thursday, Moyes received assurances that the injury was not severe, and Ndiaye's inclusion on Saturday's bench confirms this.
With Senegal among the favorites for AFCON, Ndiaye's availability is a significant boost for Everton. His creative abilities and impact on the team's performance cannot be overstated. However, it's worth noting that the decision to play him in such a crucial match could be controversial, especially given the risk of further injury.
What do you think? Should Ndiaye have been rested, or is his presence on the bench a calculated risk worth taking? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
