Toffees suffer Linderoth blow

The Swedish international picked up a hamstring strain in Wednesday's Worthington Cup win at Newcastle and was forced off in the first half.

The 23-year-old is facing four weeks out and the news is a blow for the player as he has just recently established himself in David Moyes's plans.

Toffees assistant boss Alan Irvine admitted that the injury was not a full tear, but that it was likely to keep him out for a month.

"It's not a full tear but I'm told it's a grade one so that could mean he's out for three or four weeks," said Irvine.

"It is a real shame for Toby because he's just got back in the team and there are a lot of players itching for the chance to play."

Meanwhile, Everton are anxiously awaiting news on Thomas Gravesen's knee injury which has ruled him out of the last three games.

The Danish international has been struggling with a knee problem he picked up in last month's defeat at Manchester United and it is not known how much longer he will be out of action.

"Thomas has had some fluid removed from his knee and now we are having it tested for any problems," said Moyes. "It stemmed from a heavy knock he took against Manchester United and now we'll have to wait and see."