Everton are still open to handing Dele Alli a new contract — and manager Sean Dyche says the free agent is ‘ticking along nicely’ as he trains with the club in a bid to resurrect his career.
Former England star Alli, 28, did not play at all last season as he opened up about his childhood trauma, revealing that he was sexually abused aged six and dealt drugs at just eight.
He also talked about spending time in rehab due to mental-health issues and a sleeping-pill addiction.
Alli is out of contract, but Everton are allowing him to train with them at Finch Farm — and Dyche hinted he could be offered a deal.
‘He is close but not there yet,’ said the Toffees boss. ‘And don’t forget, he’s hardly had any football — as in games — for a long time.
Alli gave an emotional interview last year in which he opened up about his childhood trauma, revealing that he was sexually abused aged six and dealt drugs at just eight
‘The club have outlined “what ifs?” but the first thing is just to get him back out there, running freely, playing, training and all that. Wait and see.
‘It’s not just a case of getting fit and running around with the first team. He needs games, so a games programme has got to come next. When you’ve been out that long, you need a period of building up and getting to true fitness. That could take three or four games.’
Alli needs to be registered to even play in Under 21s fixtures — but Everton would be willing to arrange behind-closed-doors friendlies for him