Everton midfielder Jack Rodwell has been ruled out for up to three months because of an ankle injury.
He suffered ligament damage against Aston Villa last month but swelling around the joint delayed the diagnosis.
"He's out for two to three months. A surgeon checked it and he doesn't need surgery," manager David Moyes said.
The 19-year-old had been tipped to win full England recognition this season as boss Fabio Capello looks to rebuild following a disappointing World Cup.
Just a few days ago I red an article about his bright future and how happy he is with his manager. He has improved a lot only in the last months, and is giving his manager all the cred.