Everton will be without Eliaquim Mangala for their visit to Vicarage Road after Sam Allardyce confirmed the defender will be side-lined with a long-term knee injury.

Mangala, who is on loan at Everton from Premier League leaders Manchester City, was forced off against Crystal Palace after damaging ligaments in his knee.

Toffees boss Allardyce confirmed the extent of the Frenchman’s injury in an interview with the club’s TV station and is understandably disappointed by the blow.

He said: “Mangala looks like it is long-term, which is a great shame for us and for him because I think he was a great addition for us.”

Mangala arrived at Goodison Park on a short-term deal which keeps him at the club for the remainder of the season.

He has made two starts since completing the deadline day move and endured a torrid debut as Arsenal thrashed Allardyce’s men 5-1.

He is one of a number of Everton players struggling with injury, but Allardyce does hope to be boosted by the return of Phil Jagielka and Leighton Baines.