Everton v Wolves injury news - five confirmed out & four doubts as Calvert-Lewin update issued

Wolverhampton Wanderers make their long-awaited return to Premier League action on Boxing Day as they take on Everton away from home. Julen Lopetegui, who has managed Wolves for just one competitive fixture so far, will make his English top flight debut on Monday.

The former Real Madrid head coach took charge of his first competitive Wanderers fixture on December 20 as his side beat Gillingham by two goals to nil in the Carabao Cup. It was a dominant display as fans welcomed the new man to the dugout at Molineux, but lots of work is still to be done.

Ahead of the Premier League’s return, Wolves sit at rock bottom of the standings having won just two of their opening 15 fixtures. It will take quite an effort to get them up and out of the relegation zone, but the arrival of Lopetegui has brought about some optimism.

One positive to take before Monday’s clash is Everton have also made a very disappointing start to the campaign as they too have found themselves in a relegation battle. They are just one point above the bottom three, so this particular game could prove to be quite the six-pointer.

What is the injury news ahead of Everton vs Wolves?

The hosts could welcome back star striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin, who has struggled with an array of injuries since the start of last season. “Dominic is recovering well,” Frank Lampard told evertontv pre-match. “It gives us the potential that he may be available for Wolves but I don’t want to commit to that,” Lampard continued.

Central defender Conor Coady, who is on loan at Goodison Park from Wolves, is ineligible to face his parent club. Midfielder James Garner is ruled out with a back injury, whereas winger Andros Townsend (knee) is a doubt but there is a chance he could play. The former Tottenham man is yet to feature for the Toffees this season.

Lopetegui is hoping to have wing-back Jonny Otto and midfielder Boubacar Traore (both groin) available on Boxing Day after the duo missed the game against Gillingham. “In Marbella [Traore] was injured and we think he can be fit for the next match. We will see,” Lopetegui said.

“[Jonny] tried to come back with us but he has had a little problem. I think he will be ready for the next match I hope. I don’t know for sure. He hasn’t recuperated at the moment,” Lopetegui continued. Meanwhile, Sasa Kalajdzic (knee), Chiquinho (also knee) and Pedro Neto (ankle) all remain sidelined with long-term injuries. Raul Jimenez should be on the bench.

Ruled out: Coady, Garner (EVE); Kalajdzic, Neto, Chiquinho (WOL).

Doubts: Calvert-Lewin, Townsend (EVE); Jonny, Traore (WOL).