Will Dele Alli play for Everton again? ‘Complicated scenario’ explained after latest injury update

The latest injury update from Sean Dyche hinted at “progress” on the fitness front for Dele, who is working his way back from surgery on a persistent groin problem. Some considered that to be a nod towards the 27-year-old potentially figuring in match day plans before the 2023-24 campaign comes to a close.

Dele has, however, not played a competitive game of any kind since February 2023 – during a frustrating loan spell at Turkish side Besiktas – and is expected to hit free agency this summer without adding to his tally of 13 appearances for Everton.

Dr Rajpal Brar, a specialist in physical therapy and sports science, has told Goodison News of the problems Dele faces when it comes to getting back onto the pitch: “Based on what Dyche said and recent reports, progress here could simply be that he’s responding well to physio, however low or high intensity that might be. Considering how long he’s been out and how conservative the club have been for him, I would be very, very surprised if he returns this season. It is a complicated scenario and his lack of match fitness has not been ideal either.”

Dele is approaching another important career crossroads in 2024. After enduring issues on and off the field of late, the former England international faces a big call on what he does next – with it suggested that he may have to drop down a division or two in order to rekindle a spark and recover lost form.