Everton boss Ronald Koeman has revealed that he expects to be without James McCarthy for the remainder of the month after the midfielder underwent surgery on his groin.
McCarthy was forced to pull out of the Republic of Ireland's squad for the opening World Cup qualifier in Serbia, and is now doubtful for his national side's games against Georgia and Moldova in early October.
The 25-year-old also missed the Toffees' 1-0 win over Stoke City prior to the international break and will likely sit out a further five games before returning to action, although full-back and compatriot Seamus Coleman is back to full fitness.
"James McCarthy has had groin surgery and will be out for three weeks," Koeman told reporters ahead of Monday's clash with Sunderland. "Seamus was fit to play and he has come back without any reaction. He is now fit to start."
On his side's start to the season so far, Koeman added: "Everton needs to be fighting for Europe and I feel like we've got the team to do that. It's been an okay start but we need to continue. We still need time physically but that's no excuse not to win."
The Toffees are one of six unbeaten sides in the Premier League after the opening three rounds of fixtures.
Daniel Lewis
