Everton's Tom Cleverley out for six weeks with ankle ligament damage

Everton midfielder Tom Cleverly has been ruled out for six weeks with ankle ligament damage.

The former Manchester United man suffered the injury in the Toffees' last Premier League match, a goalless draw at Tottenham Hotspur.

Everton boss Roberto Martinez initially said that he was unsure of Cleverley's return date, but he has now confirmed the midfielder's absence ahead of this weekend's visit of Chelsea.

"Knowing Tom and how fit and strong he is, we're looking at a six-week period," Martinez told reporters this morning.

The 26-year-old has started all four of Everton's Premier League matches so far this season.