Ben Godfrey injury return plan outlined as Everton pair ruled out of action until after World Cup

Frank Lampard has outlined how Everton plan to prepare Ben Godfrey for a playing return following his devastating injury.

The defender has been sidelined since the 1-0 loss to Chelsea on the opening day of the season.

Godfrey suffered a fractured leg when making a tackle in the first half and was carried off on a stretcher.

The former Norwich City man returns to team training next week.

However, along with Andros Townsend (ACL), Godfrey isn’t expected to be available until after the World Cup.

But featuring for Everton’s under-21s at some point could be part of how Godfrey can get fully up to speed.

Lampard said: “I think it might be tough for him to be back before the World Cup, if I’m honest, because it’s November 12 we break up.

“We’ll look at the best plan for that. It’s good for us we have this break because it means Ben has that time, Andros Townsend has that time - he’s in a similar situation in terms of recovery.

“It’s good for us for those in terms of those players in particular. Maybe under-21s games, extend his training and get him back. If he’s not ready before the break then get him ready for Boxing Day.”