Leighton Baines has been ruled out of action for 12-14 weeks with an ankle injury, according to the official Everton website.
The 30-year-old left-back sustained the injury just 24 hours before Everton’s pre-season opener against Watford and has had surgery to correct the issue.
It’s the second time Baines has had ankle surgery this year after going under the knife to cure a long-standing complaint in May.
The news comes as a huge blow to Everton and Roberto Martinez, the former Wigan star is an integral part of the Blues set-up and is the most creative outlet for the side.
Brendan Galloway and Bryan Oviedo are potential replacements for Baines, Galloway started against Watford on Saturday as Oviedo is still bidding to reach full fitness.
Another injured Everton left-back Luke Garbutt, who’s on a season-long loan at Fulham, will not need surgery on his ankle.
The 22-year-old starlet suffered ankle ligament damage during pre-season with the Cottagers and will be out for around 6 weeks.
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