Victor Anichebe may make surprise return home
VICTOR ANICHEBE could make a surprise return to the Everton bench for Saturday's opening Premier League game with Blackburn Rovers.
The striker is set to take part in Nigeria's final group game of the Olympic football tournament against USA in Beijing today - but defeat could see him flown back in time for the weekend.
Anichebe would not be in any shape to take a place in the starting line-up despite David Moyes's current shortage of options up front.
But the possibility of him boosting numbers from the substitutes' bench is being explored as Yakubu is the only Everton forward guaranteed to be involved for the visit of Paul Ince's side.
The arrival of Vagner Love and Alan Smith are still subject to delay as Moyes tries to secure the players' services before the league campaign kicks off.
Brazilian Love was originally due to complete his deal today but his club CSKA Moscow stated that there had been "no negotiations" about the proposed £2.5million loan deal that has been on offer.
Reported interest from Aston Villa for Smith could also delay his move and push up his value - while Newcastle manager Kevin Keegan remains seemingly unwilling to sell the player.
James Vaughan is also likely to be missing from the Everton attack against Rovers as the club expect the FA to confirm a suspension for his sending-off in the friendly at Chicago Fire last month.
Anichebe's further involvement in the Olympics does, however, hinge on Holland beating Japan, who are already out. If this happens Nigeria will go out if they lose to the USA.
If the Dutch fail to win, both Nigeria and the Americans will go through and on to the quarter-finals, which start at the weekend.
Anichebe scored the second goal for his country in their 2-1 win over Japan, providing evidence that he does at least have the sharpness to go straight back into the Everton fold.
The 20-year-old has maintained his match fitness throughout the summer by playing in World Cup qualifiers for the full Nigerian side in June, after which he went straight to the training camp for the Olympics.
One player already making his way back from the Games is Ryan Nelsen, who has been allowed to leave by New Zealand following their two defeats in China. The central defender will take his place in the Blackburn Rovers side for their trip to face Everton on Saturday's opening day fixture at Goodison Park.
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Again more hopes dashed (Love) because Moyes & Kenwright are not on the same wave length as the agents. Moyes states he wants a certain type of player to take Everton forward. With 48 hrs to go I hope the Kids are up to it, or come the end Of December we could be looking relegation in the face. I am actually waiting to see how long he stays when the supporters go after his head. No I am not a pessamist just someone who looks at the hole picture.
Thanks
Colin P