Tom Cleverley Injury: Updates on Everton Midfielder's Ankle and Recovery

Everton midfielder Tom Cleverley had to be stretchered off the pitch during the first half of the Toffees' match against Tottenham on Aug. 29, having suffered a nasty ankle injury.

He is now expected to return at the end of October.

Continue for updates.

---

Martinez Comments on Cleverley's Status; Recovery Timeline Revealed

Tuesday, Sept. 2

Everton manager Roberto Martinez confirmed Cleverley didn't suffer a fractured ankle, per the BBC:

"

"We have mixed feelings because we feared the worst when that challenge happened," said boss Roberto Martinez. "We thought it was a fracture and to have a fracture at this stage of the season would have been devastating for Tom because his form has been terrific. He has got ligament damage and the next step will be to see how long he is going to be out. But clearly it's good news from when we saw Tom falling to the ground."

"

Cleverley is likely to be out "for six to eight weeks," reported Andy Hunter of the Guardian on Sept. 1.

The 26-year-old suffered the injury right before half-time, as Spurs' Eric Dier completely missed the ball with his tackle and instead scythed Cleverley's leg. While it didn't seem like there was any malicious intent, Cleverley's leg twisted under him as he fell, and he immediately reached for his ankle.

Cleverley joined the Toffees during the summer after a tumultuous spell with Manchester United. He was once regarded as one of the best young midfielders in England, but a series of injuries halted his development—and he spent the 2014-15 campaign on loan with Aston Villa.

This latest setback is a huge blow for Cleverley, who was finally turning the corner and playing some of the best football of his life. However, Martinez can turn to the likes of Gerard Deulofeu for a regular starting spot in his absence.