Source: Liverpool_Echo
Everton FC rocked by fresh Mikel Arteta injury anguish
EVERTON have been dealt a devastating blow after Mikel Arteta suffered another setback in his bid to recover from long-term knee injury.[LNB]The Spanish midfielder has not played for the Blues since rupturing his cruciate ligament during a 0-0 draw with Newcastle United on February 22.[LNB]Arteta had initially been expected back in full training last month but, after working hard throughout the summer, he broke down in September and required keyhole surgery.[LNB]He recovered from that procedure to start light training again but, worryingly for Arteta and boss David Moyes, another problem in the same area has flared up.[LNB]That has left Moyes contemplating the grim prospect of being unable to call on Arteta - who is currently receiving treatment in Spain - until well into the New Year.[LNB]Moyes has been forced to juggle the most extensive injury list he has ever known during his time as Everton manager this season and it is showing little sign of relenting.[LNB]Steven Pienaar - who took over Arteta's mantle so impressively at the end of last season - is still battling to overcome the knee injury he sustained at Portsmouth on September 26.[LNB]The little South African will not be fit for tomorrow's Europa League match against Benfica nor will he be available for the trip to West Ham on Sunday.
