Everton secure costly progress in Europe
David Moyes is facing a major injury crisis at Everton
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By Adam Leveridge. |  |
Thursday, 03, Dec 2009 11:09
By Alistair Potter.
Everton booked their place in the last 32 of the Europa League after a 1-0 win against AEK Athens - but saw a number of players struck down with injuries.
First-team regulars Dan Gosling and Sylvain Distin were both forced off with hamstring strains within 18 minutes of kick-off in Greece, where summer signing Diniyar Bilyaletdinov scored the Toffees' winner.
Manager David Moyes' injury concerns were exacerbated when striker Jo was substituted in the second half after suffering a knee injury.
The extensive injury list at Goodison Park, which includes fellow first-teamers Phil Neville, Phil Jagielka and James Vaughan, forced Moyes to use teenagers Shane Duffy, Seamus Coleman and Jose Baxter.
And although the Scot admitted he would rather introduce them to senior football more gradually, he said he was pleased with the way they have adjusted so far.
"I am pleased with how the young boys who came on and did," Moyes said.
"It's great experience for them; one or two are maybe stepping up a bit soon but it's needs must at the moment."
Everton's injury problems also mean Leon Osman, Jack Rodwell, Victor Anichebe and Mikel Arteta are currently unavailable
Lucas Neill will be available for the Premier League game against Spurs on Sunday, but John Heitinga is suspended.