Dominic Calvert-Lewin explains Everton injury situation - and when he hopes to be back to fitness

Dominic Calvert-Lewin has lifted the lid on his current Everton injury situation - and revealed he’s trying his “absolute best” to be back for the Merseyside derby.

The striker has missed the Toffees past seven games with a quad injury and is again absent for tonight’s clash at Wolves.

Frustration

After scoring three goals in the opening three games of theseason, Rafa Benitez’s side have missed Calvert-Lewin leading the line since August.

The England international appeared as a special guest on Sky Sports’ Monday Night Football for Everton’s game at Molineux.

And Calvert-Lewin gave an insight into his setback and how his recovery is going.

He said: “It’s been so frustrating to start the season pretty well with three goals in as many games and to be sidelined and almost there.

“For my injury to recur, it’s been difficult. The hardest part is the mental battle, seeing the lads playing in the Premier League and not being able to have an impact.

“I just love scoring goals and that’s what keeps me going through my rehab.

“I started well and got on the penalties. I had a conversation with Rafa before the first game of the season and, as a number nine, it’s something that can get your goal tally up.

“My aim is to break that 20-goal mark and being on penalties helps to do that.

“It’s difficult (watching from the sidelines). Being a football player, I want to play and every player wants to play. I’m a fan of the game but first and foremost want to play.

“To watch it, it’s difficult when results don’t go our way and you feel a bit helpless.

“All I can do is keep supporting the lads and keep working as hard as I can to get back fit.”

Derby hopes

Everton welcome bitter rivals Liverpool to Goodison Park on Wednesday 1 December.

Calvert-Lewin is giving everything to be available for the game.

When asked if he’ll be back for the clash, he responded: “I don’t know - I’m trying my absolute best!”