Everton confirm Theo Walcott is ‘available’ to face Burnley on the weekend. Marco Silva said the 30-year-old is “fighting for inclusion” after suffering concussion from last Saturday’s 3-1 defeat to Manchester City.
Walcott was given a rare start against City but lasted only a few minutes before having to be brought off with the head injury. The England international has made seven appearances in all competitions this season, but he’s amassed just 105 minutes of playing time without scoring or making an assist.
After netting just five goals in 37 Premier League games last season, Walcott finds himself low down the pecking order – Silva has preferred Richarlison, Alex Iwobi and Bernard over the winger. Walcott may get an opportunity to prove himself after working hard to be ready for Saturday, however.
Silva said in Thursday’s press conference: “(Walcott is) really good news for us. Theo started to do some individual work (first day of this week), and today he did all the session. Theo just stopped for two or three days, it’s nothing, so, if we decide, he will be ready.”
Everton can’t afford any more slip-ups in the Premier League. The Merseysiders are 15th in the table with seven points from as many games this season. Silva’s men have lost four of their last five and have suffered defeats in their previous three.
They face a Burnley side boasting two wins from three home games. Walcott should make the squad, but whether he’s handed a start remains to be seen.