Cahill and Beattie leave Everton short

Cahill concern
Australian international midfielder Cahill damaged the same fifth metatarsal in his left foot that he broke in March during his comeback appearance for Everton against Werder Bremen last Tuesday. While the 27-year-old is expected to return to the sidelines for at least six weeks, former England striker Beattie has withdrawn permanently from manager David Moyes's plans after joining Sheffield United in a €6m transfer.

'Premature'
Beattie, 29, had been Everton's record signing when he arrived from Southampton FC in January 2005 but he managed only 13 Premier League goals in 76 games. Everton, meanwhile, have denied that Cahill could be out for as long as three months, with physio Mick Rathbone saying: "That is premature. Tim jumped and landed awkwardly on the outside of his foot. He has injured the old fracture site a little. He has undoubtedly stressed the site." The Merseysiders' UEFA Cup challenge begins in the first round on 20 September.