Everton striker Iliman Ndiaye: m came on as a substitute in the second half for Senegal during their Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Malawi. The 24-year-old had to leave the field limping in his team’s 4-0 victory over the same opponent on Friday, raising worries about his fitness. However, Everton’s optimism that the injury was not serious was lifted when he played on Tuesday afternoon.
Ndiaye exited the field after receiving treatment for an ankle injury in last week’s game. Senegal coach Pape Thiaw stated before the return match: “Iliman was hurt during the game. He trained on Sunday, even though he wasn’t with the team on the pitch; he was at the hotel practicing.”
Any concerns about his fitness were quickly dispelled when Ndiaye entered the game just before the hour mark, as Senegal aimed for a breakthrough in Lilongwe. Footage from the Bingu National Stadium showed him performing well, battling for the ball and outmaneuvering defenders while Sadio Mane scored a last-minute winner for the away team. His swift return to action was a boost for Blues manager Sean Dyche, who has been dealing with selection challenges due to injuries and illnesses in the early weeks of the season. Ndiaye’s Everton teammate Idrissa Gueye also played for Senegal. The Blues are set to return to action on Saturday as they head to Portman Road to face newly promoted Ipswich Town.
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