Insider issues unexpected Andros Townsend claim as new Everton details emerge – ‘From what I understand…’
Andros Townsend could return from injury earlier than expected for Everton by continuing his rehabilitation in Qatar.
That is the view of medical expert Ben Dinnery, who runs the Premier Injuries site and has a background in injury and data analysis, speaking exclusively to Football Insider.
Townsend has not featured for Everton since suffering an ACL injury in March and is out in Qatar covering the World Cup for ITV.
The 31-year-old revealed while commentating on Switzerland’s 1-0 win over Cameroon last week (24 November) that he was continuing his rehab in the Middle East but refused to be drawn on a possible return date.
“Psychologically, just a change of environment away from Finch Farm with a bit of sun on your back, of course, that’s going to help,” Dinnery told Football Insider correspondent Connor Whitley.
“Who wouldn’t want to get away from England at this point in time?
“It gives you a different outlook and you’re away from that emphasis and focus on yourself and sometimes that gives you a boost.
“Players are tracked but we’re talking about Andros Townsend, a professional who has been at the top of his game who is never in the headlines for the wrong reasons.
“He understands his body, he knows what needs to be done and he’s focused on that recovery.
“From what I understand, he is a player who you could put your explicit trust in.
“I think it’s a good thing for him. I don’t think it hinders him in any way, shape or form.
“Again, it’s an opportunity to access some support. I don’t know if he’s there or not, but we have the Aspetar clinic which is based out in Doha and considered to be one of the leading authorities in medical care and rehabilitation.
“It’s an opportunity to have a different pair of eyes on it and go through a different stage of training.
“All of this culminates in getting Andros back and hopefully a return to play is quicker than you would normally see.
“I don’t see any issues with him being out in Qatar.”
In other news, Everton are set for an FA investigation after an Alexander Iwobi controversy.