Injury analyst Ben Dinnery says that Everton winger Andros Townsend could return from injury 'quicker' than expected.
The Lowdown: Continuing his recovery
Speaking as a pundit during Switzerland’s 1-0 win over Cameroon at the World Cup for ITV, the 31-year-old shared that he was continuing his rehabilitation in the Middle East, but he refused to be drawn on a potential return date.
He has not played at Goodison Park since March after suffering an ACL injury, but there will be hope that he can make a return in the second part of the season.
The Latest: Early return for Townsend?
Speaking to Football Insider, Dinnery has claimed that Townsend continuing his rehab in the Middle East instead of back at Finch Farm could give him a 'boost', resulting in him potentially returning to the pitch 'quicker' than initially thought.
The injury analyst said: “Psychologically, just a change of environment away from Finch Farm with a bit of sun on your back, of course, that’s going to help. Who wouldn’t want to get away from England at this point in time?
“It gives you a different outlook and you’re away from that emphasis and focus on yourself and sometimes that gives you a boost.
“Players are tracked but we’re talking about Andros Townsend, a professional who has been at the top of his game who is never in the headlines for the wrong reasons.
“He understands his body, he knows what needs to be done and he’s focused on that recovery. From what I understand, he is a player who you could put your explicit trust in.
“I think it’s a good thing for him. I don’t think it hinders him in any way, shape or form.
“Again, it’s an opportunity to access some support. I don’t know if he’s there or not, but we have the Aspetar clinic which is based out in Doha and considered to be one of the leading authorities in medical care and rehabilitation.
“It’s an opportunity to have a different pair of eyes on it and go through a different stage of training. All of this culminates in getting Andros back and hopefully a return to play is quicker than you would normally see.
“I don’t see any issues with him being out in Qatar.”
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The Verdict: Could be a welcome boost
Of course, Everton need to ensure that they do not rush Townsend back after such a serious injury, but his return could be a welcome boost for Frank Lampard and the team.
At 31 years of age, the winger is one of the more senior players in the squad, and he boasts plenty of Premier League experience.
He has been involved in relegation battles before, with the Toffees last season and also during spells at the likes of QPR, Newcastle United and Crystal Palace; and given their position in the table, Everton may need to count on that experience once more.
The £40,000-per-week winger may not find himself on the pitch too often from now until the end of the campaign, but Townsend could well turn out to be a key figure in the dressing room.