Source: Daily_Mail
Mikel Arteta adds to Everton injury hell as playmaker faces third operation
Mikel Arteta has suffered a set-back in his recovery from a cruciate ligament injury and may need a third operation.[LNB]The midfield star is likely to be ruled out till the new year if medics decide he does need surgery on the knee he damaged in February.[LNB]It is another huge blow to Everton boss David Moyes, who initially hoped to have his playmaker available in September.[LNB] Season over: Mikel Arteta suffered his knee injury against Newcastle in February[LNB]Selection headache: David Moyes[LNB]Everton have struggled without the Spaniard, winning just three of 10 League matches so far this season - a record that has them standing 13th with just 12 points.[LNB]After initial surgery, Arteta needed a second minor procedure after returning to training in September, but he had been expected to return in the middle of this month.[LNB]He was expected to step up his rehabilitation in the next month only to suffer an infection in the injury.[LNB]Moyes said: 'We have had to wash out the knee. It is a setback but I cannot say for how long."[LNB]Moyes is preparing his injury hit side for Thursday's UEFA Cup tie against Benfica with Phil Jagielka, Phil Neville, Victor Anichebe, Steven Pienaar and James Vaughan also on the treatment table with knee problems. [LNB]Tim Cahill and Leon Osman also missed training this week ahead of the Goodison Park match, while John Heitinga and Lucas Neill are ineligible.[LNB] Manchester City join the chase for Everton's teen ace Jack RodwellEverton whizkid Jack Rodwell eyeing sweet revenge mission against BenficaEverton's £10m man Bilyaletdinov tells burglars: Stay clear of my new flatCharles Sale: Poppies growing on Premier League clubsEVERTON FC
