Alex Iwobi injury latest as Everton midfielder leaves Old Trafford on crutches

Alex Iwobi suffered suspected damage to his ankle ligaments during the second half of Everton’s FA Cup defeat to Manchester United – although Everton are hopeful the injury isn’t as serve as first appeared.

The ECHO understands the Nigerian international, who was replaced by Abdoulaye Doucouré after 52 minutes and later left Old Trafford on crutches, will undergo a scan on his ankle in the coming days, with initial fears suggesting it could be ligament damage.

Iwobi was left in a heap after a strong challenge from Manchester United defender Tyrell Malacia early in the second half and spent a prolonged period of time receiving treatment, where he was comforted by team-mates Seamus Coleman and Demarai Gray.

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Despite putting up a fight against Erik Ten Hag’s side, goals from Anthony and Marcus Rashford at either end of the game saw the Red Devils dump Everton out at the third round stage and ensure their wait for a first trophy since 1995 continues.

Conor Coady had equalised for the Toffees early in the first half after he was quick to pounce on a David de Gea blunder. That was before he sliced into his own net shortly after the restart to restore United’s lead.

Everton thought they had a well-worked equaliser with little over 20 minutes remaining at Old Trafford as Gray, Coleman and Dominic Calvert-Lewin all combined before the England striker bundled the former’s cross in at the near post. However, referee Darren England chalked off the effort for the Toffees after Gray was adjudged to have picked the ball up in an offside position.

Despite the strong showing in Manchester, pressure continues to grow on Lampard, who, as it stands, will take control of the Blues Premier League fixture against Southampton next Saturday.

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