As well as missing Gareth Barry through suspension, Everton will be without captain Phil Jagileka for Tuesday’s game after he suffered a knee injury against Arsenal.
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Toffees boss Roberto Martinez had initially feared the worst over the 33 year old’s condition, but told reporters that Jagielka would only be side lined for just over two months.
Everton host Norwich City midweek in the Capital One Cup before returning to home team duties when they face Sam Allardyce’s Sunderland on November 1st at Goodison Park. “I wouldn’t expect anything longer than eight to nine weeks out”.
Martinez called the injury “very concerning” in the aftermath of the game, but scans have revealed only medial ligament damage.
“There is no other damage to the meniscus or the cartilage”.
Joel Robles will deputise as he has for other cup ties this season.
The Everton manager added: “He will be a huge miss”.
The Blues have been plagued by injuries to their first-choice back four this term, something which has left the Catalan exasperated. You rely on certain leaders to allow young players to come in and perform.
“And maybe he has to learn that but it’s hard as a striker or an attacking player, sometimes it’s hard to cope with the amount of bad treatment you get from defenders”.
Martinez was unhappy with Oxlade-Chamberlain’s role in his skipper’s injury, and said at the weekend: “To lose Phil Jagielka in such a stupid challenge is disappointing, because the referee has already awarded the free-kick”.
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“He’s had a good period now to settle in, to understand the team-mates, the way we want to play and the league itself”, Martinez said. “He’s someone with an incredible, courageous attitude – very commanding”.
