Van der Meyde blow for Toffees

Everton do not expect Dutch winger Andy van der Meyde to be fit for the holiday programme.

The 26-year-old damaged a thigh muscle in training ahead of the 1-1 draw at Manchester United on December 12.

It was hoped he could return for the derby at home to Liverpool next Wednesday but David Moyes said: “I do not think Andy will be fit now.

“He looks to have a more serious injury. Initially we felt that it was quite bad when it happened, then we were given grounds for some optimism when he responded to treatment.

“But it does not look good now even though he has started running. He can still feel the injury and we feel he could be out for a few more weeks yet.”