Everton confirmed on Friday that they’ll ‘definitely be without’ Bernard against Tottenham on Sunday. The 27-year-old is out of action with a seriousy knee injury from Everton’s 3-2 defeat to Brighton & Hove Albion last Saturday, causing him to miss Tuesday’s EFL Cup win over Watford. It remains to be seen when he’ll return.
Bernard was substituted after 30 minutes against Brighton and will need “a little bit more time,” according to Marco Silva. The Everton manager said in Friday’s press conference: “Everyone knows the Bernard situation. With (him), we’ll have to wait a little bit more time. All the others are in good condition.”
The Brazilian international has made nine appearances in all competitions this season, scoring and creating two goals. Bernard has blown hot and cold in the Premier League, resulting in him being dropped by Silva or left on the substitutes’ bench in recent weeks, but he’ll be missed.
Richarlison has been leading the line of late due to Everton’s lack of goals, so the Merseysiders need another wide-man to compliment Theo Walcott. Against Watford, Silva tried to use Moise Kean in a makeshift role on the wing, but the experiment failed.
If Richarlison starts up front against Tottenham, who should replace Bernard out wide?
Moise Kean
Alex Iwobi
Alex Iwobi is an option, but he’s more effective centrally, so Silva will be hoping Bernard isn’t out for too long.