Pistone to undergo op
EVERTON have confirmed that Italian defender Alessandro Pistone needs a hernia operation which will rule him out of action for at least four weeks.
The former Newcastle United star went back to his native Italy this week to meet with consultants and they agreed with Everton's medical team - who told Pistone he would need surgery.
Pistone is one player to have flourished under David Moyes's management and his loss is a blow to The Toffees' chief.
"We were informed last night that Sandro will require surgery," Moyes told Everton's official website.
"The operation will take place in the next day or two and we hope to have him back amongst us as soon as possible."
