Everton boss Sean Dyche provides Armando Broja update amid Chelsea transfer hope
Everton boss Sean Dyche has revealed Armando Broja has returned to training, with the on-loan Chelsea star "hungry" to make his debut in the coming weeks.
Broja, 23, moved to the Toffees in the summer on transfer deadline day after Enzo Maresca made it clear the striker was not in his plans. The Albania international is yet to feature this season, however, because of an Achilles injury.
Broja had been suffering with the problem for more than two months but has now returned to training, Dyche revealed on Thursday ahead of Everton's home clash against Brentford in the Premier League on Saturday. “He’s only just getting into full training. He’s been doing light bits, just getting him integrated into the group, as much for his injury as well," Dyche said on Broja.
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“He’s had a full week’s training but he does need a games programme obviously. We’re looking at the dates now because we wanted to ensure he came through his first full week. But he’s done well with that, he says he feels good and he’s looking fit.
“I think he’s hungry, I think he’s got a desire. He’s worked very hard to get fit."
Everton have scored just 10 goals in their opening 11 games, failing to find the net in their last two outings, a 1-0 loss to Southampton and a goalless draw with West Ham. “It’s just constant practice,” said Dyche. “Goalscoring is the hardest thing in football. If it wasn’t, everyone would be a great goalscorer.
“You try and get players in the right area but the final moment of truth, and every manager will tell you, that’s the bit you can’t do, that’s down to the players.”
Chelsea will be hoping Broja can have a decent season at Everton once fit, with the 23-year-old yet to fulfil his potential. The striker did feature 19 times for the Blues last season and scored two goals in the process, although many of his appearances came off the bench. This led to a January move to Fulham but he failed to make an impact, playing just 81 minutes of action for the Cottagers.