Everton make big Lucas Digne selection decision amid Chelsea, Newcastle and Inter Milan links

The France international has been linked with a move away from Goodison Park this month.
By Will Rooney
Published 2nd Jan 2022, 13:00 BST
Updated 2nd Jan 2022, 13:29 BST
Everton defender Lucas Digne. Picture: Jan Kruger/Getty ImagesEverton defender Lucas Digne. Picture: Jan Kruger/Getty Images
Everton defender Lucas Digne. Picture: Jan Kruger/Getty Images

Lucas Digne has been named on the bench for Everton’s clash with Brighton and Hove Albion this afternoon (14.00).

The left-back returns to the match-day squad amid talk of an exit during the transfer window this month.

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Digne, 29, has had an off-field dispute with Toffees manager Rafa Benitez over tactics.

That meant he was omitted for games against Arsenal and Crystal Palace last month. Digne was then ill for Everton’s last game - a 1-1 draw with Chelsea on December 16.

Now he’s back on duty after Benitez included Digne among his substitutes - although it’s unlikely to cool any talk of a potential exit.

Everton have already recruited an additional left-back during the transfer window.

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After opening yesterday, the Blues announced the expected signing for Vitaliy Mykolenko from Dynamo Kiev. He’s unable to play against Brighton, however, as per Premier League rules.

Digne’s situation at Goodison Park is said to have alerted several clubs.

Chelsea are one side interested as they seek a replacement for Ben Chilwell, who is set to undergo ACL surgery and will be out for the majority of the season.

Following their Saudia Arabian takeover, Newcastle United are also keen in their bid to avoid relegation.

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Serie A champions Inter Milan and title rivals Napoli are also mooted to have declared their interest.

DCL return

In more positive news, Dominic Calvert-Lewin makes his return from injury for Everton.

The striker has been out of action since August with a quad problem, having scored three goals in as many games before his setback.

He goes straight back into theToffees’ starting XI.

Seamus Coleman and Allan are also fit enough to start, having only been on the bench in the heroic draw at Chelsea.

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Richarlison and Andros Townsend are among the notable absentees amid injuries and Covid-19 problems in the Goodison camp.

Everton: Pickford, Coleman, Kenny, Holgate, Keane, Godfrey, Allan, Doucoure, Gray, Gordon, Calvert-Lewin.

Subs: Begovic, Digne, Iwobi, Gomes, Gbamin, Onyango, Rondon, Simms, Dobbin.

Related topics:ChelseaRafa BenitezNewcastleDominic Calvert-Lewin

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