Everton manager Roberto Martinez has said that Gerard Deulofeu is unlikely to feature in this afternoon's pre-season friendly against Blackburn Rovers.
The 19-year-old Spaniard - on loan from Barcelona - was granted an extended summer break due to his exertions in the Under-20 World Cup and only linked up with his new teammates on Thursday.
Toffees fans will have been hoping to see him in action at Ewood Park but instead Martinez is aiming to blood the youngster during their upcoming US tour.
"Gerard Deulofeu arrived [on Thursday] and it will be very difficult for him to be involved against Blackburn," Martinez told the club's official website.
"He is a young man so has the ability to be introduced into the group quicker than older players would, but the US tour is probably more realistic for Gerard."
Everton take on Juventus in the International Champions Cup in San Francisco on July 31.
Written by
Michael Penkman
Michael Penkman
