Sean Dyche shares James Garner update ahead of Everton v Fulham

Everton manager Sean Dyche has praised James Garner in wake of his return from a long-term injury.

The Toffees boss told the club’s media team that the Blues midfielder has been “training hard and training well”.

Garner returned to action earlier this month after several months on the sidelines due to a back injury.

The 22-year-old, who was injured in November, came off the bench against Tottenham Hotspur on April 3.

Garner then got 30 minutes under his belt in last week’s loss to Manchester United.

The former Red Devils ace also featured for the England Under-21s in their two most recent games.

Everton are back in action on Saturday when they host Fulham at Goodison Park in a 3pm kickoff.

Dyche will be without Abdoulaye Doucoure, who has two games left to serve of a three-match ban.

The Everton midfielder picked up a straight red card in the match against Spurs.

‘We will certainly have a think’

Dyche admits Doucoure’s absence is unfortunate, but acknowledges it’ll give the likes of Garner a chance to start.

Tom Davies also has the chance to be in the starting XI against the Cottagers.

“They are both going well,” said Dyche.

“Jimmy is returning after an injury but he’s had a number of weeks now with us. He is training hard and training well.

“Tom’s been at the club a longer period and played games so he understands the role.

“We want flexibility within the squad and it’s needed.

“If you do get injuries, it is needed, so, yes, we will certainly have a think on with Doucs coming out of the side.

“Try to change to the best way we can be effective.”