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Mason Holgate has missed most of Everton's pre-season with Achilles tendinitis.

The Blues hope the 21-year-old will return to training soon but no exact timescale has been put on his recovery.

Holgate started the first game of the Marco Silva era in Austria against ATV Irdning but has only made cameo appearances against Lille and Porto since.

(Image: Tony McArdle - Everton FC)

The young defender is seen as a central part of Silva's plans at Goodison and his selection in Austria last month was a clear indication of where he lies in the pecking order.

But Holgate has been unable to cement his position because of an injury which has dogged his summer.

Everton have sold Ramiro Funes Mori and allowed Ashley Williams to leave on loan but are hopeful of adding a new centre-back to their ranks before Thursday's deadline.