Barry, 33, was taken off in a 1-1 draw at Sunderland with what was feared to be a broken leg.

A report on the club website (www.evertonfc.com) said: “The player’s treatment is ongoing and although it is too early to estimate a length of absence, it is hopeful the time out will be weeks rather than months.

“His ankle is still very swollen, which complicates assessment, but the Everton medical staff have confirmed that there is ligament damage in the area.” — Reuters