Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite looks set to miss the remainder of the season after being stretchered off in the Merseyside derby.
Branthwaite, who had arguably been the standout player for Everton as they suffered a 2-1 home defeat to Liverpool, left the field in tears in the second half of the match.
The England international had only recovered from a long-term hamstring injury and subsequent surgery in January and the latest blow could also impact his preparations for next season.
What is Jarrad Branthwaite's injury?
Branthwaite suffered a hamstring injury at the Hill Dickinson Stadium and had to be carried off the field.
The 23-year-old was attempted to shield the ball in his own penalty area before going down clutching the back of his leg.
He had initially tried to play on but it was evident that the injury to his hamstring was not something he could run off.
How long will Jarrad Branthwaite be out for?
Branthwaite will almost certainly be absent for the final month of the season.
A place in Thomas Tuchel's England squad was already unlikely but the injury will also scupper any World Cup plans.
Branthwaite will be looking to return in time for pre-season but that will depend on the severity of the injury.
Which fixtures will he miss?
- West Ham (A) - 25th April
- Man City (H) - 4th May
- Crystal Palace (A) - 10th May
- Sunderland (H) - 17th May
- Tottenham (A) - 24th May
Standard hamstring injury recovery time
Hamstring injuries are relatively common amongst professional footballers and the recovery time can vary.
Mild strains usually result in a week on the sidelines but a tear clearly results in a longer timeframe.
Significant tears can require around three months of rest before any training can begin, whereas the full recovery time can be up to six months.
