Everton have suffered an injury blow ahead of the festive fixture rush with news that Leon Osman could be sidelined for up to six weeks by a broken toe.
The midfielder sustained the injury in the Carling Cup victory over West Ham at Upton Park last Wednesday. He played on with it against the Hammers in the Premier League return clash on Saturday after receiving a painkilling injection but an x-ray has since confirmed the news that will prevent the in-form midfielder continuing in the side.
Moyes said: “It’s an absolutely terrible blow. He broke his toe in the first five minutes of the Cup game but he battled on and it shows you how tough he is. He was in a bad way but still wanted to play.
“He had a scan and it showed a big crack and we think he is going to be out for between four to six weeks. Leon’s form had been good and he has been playing a big part in everything that we have achieved recently.”
Osman has been an influential playmaker in the Everton midfield, rising to prominence as part of the recent system that has helped the Toffees put together a run of 12 games unbeaten.
Osman will not travel to Holland for Everton's final game in Uefa Cup Group A. He will be vying for a return to action in time for the Carling Cup semi-final second leg next month.
With Thursday's game irrelevant for Everton - who have already secured top spot in the Group - the manager has confirmed he will make changes.
Joseph Yobo could miss out because of a niggling ankle problem, but Andrew Johnson could be handed a starting berth after coming off the bench to net against West Ham on Saturday.
Moyes adds: “He will play a big part in the weeks and months to come. We are playing well. I’m happy to bring in players, as we have a few to come back.
“We’ve got a few knocks and bruises. Joseph Yobo has been struggling with his ankle a bit, while Alan Stubbs and Leighton Baines are still out so we’ll have to see how we go."
Everton travel to Holland on Wednesday.
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