Everton Football Club

• Nickname:Toffees
• Founded:1878
• Manager:David Moyes

• Ground:Goodison Park
• Capacity:42440

Injuries force Moyes' hand

12 Dec 2008 - 09:28:51

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Everton boss David Moyes has admitted he may be forced to rush Tony Hibbert back from injury because of the current lack of fit bodies at Goodison Park.

The 27-year-old full-back has been restricted to only three Premier League starts so far this season and none since mid-October because of a thigh problem.

Hibbert could be included in the squad to face Manchester City this weekend though, with Moyes saying: "He might have to come straight back into the squad at the weekend because we're so short of numbers.

"But we won't take any chances. We've got a nine-day break until the next match after the game at Manchester City, but then they come thick and fast over the Christmas period with three in six days.

"We want as many players up and running as possible for that spell."

Meanwhile, Joleon Lescott has admitted he has been far from his best in the opening four months of the season.

The former Wolves star was outstanding last term, but said: "I'm disappointed with the way things have gone personally so far this season overall. Consistency is the key for any player and I'm no different.

"I haven't hit the heights that I did last season or the standards I want to set. You always want to improve and get better, and this season has been quite frustrating for me in terms of performances.

"Hopefully I can get back to basics and get a run of consistency again."