Bukayo Saka sends three-word message to Alex Iwobi on Instagram after Old Trafford injury setback

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The pressure continued to mount on Everton manager Frank Lampard after their 3-1 defeat to Manchester United on Friday.

Things went from bad to worse for Lampard, as he also lost midfielder Alex Iwobi to injury at the start of the second-half.

Iwobi took to Instagram yesterday after being stretchered off at Old Trafford.

It’s a massive blow for Everton, as Iwobi has been one of their best players this season.

The Nigerian international has thrived playing through the centre of the pitch for the Toffees.

Everton have struggled in the final third all season, with top scorer Demarai Gray having only found the back of the net five times in all competitions.

Iwobi has been their chief creator, and has the same number of assists (six) as the rest of the squad combined.

His injury was very unfortunate, with his ankle getting caught after a sliding challenge from Tyrell Malacia.

The 26-year-old was clearly in a lot of pain, and immediately lifted his shirt over this face to hide his discomfort.

Iwobi stretchered off against Manchester United

After the match, Iwobi took to Instagram with a short message, simply saying: “Appreciate the love, back soon.”

A number of his current and former teammates replied, including fellow Arsenal academy graduate Bukayo Saka.

Saka wished his ex-teammate all the best, replying: “Speedy recovery bro.”

Another man with an Arsenal connection, Ainsley Maitland-Niles added: “Back soon for real.”

With Everton’s Premier League survival still very much in doubt, Lampard will want Iwobi back as quickly as possible.

The Liverpool Echo believe Iwobi may have suffered ankle ligament damage, and will undergo a scan in the next few days.

“We hope it’s not too serious,” Lampard said to the club’s official website.

“It is an ankle ligament injury, we hope it’s a lesser one. He will have a scan tomorrow to confirm.”

Iwobi injury could change January transfer plans

Iwobi said back in November that he would like to extend his stay at Goodison Park and sign a new deal.

However, there’s been no announcement, and the Nigerian may be biding his time before making a final decision.

After being stretchered off on Friday, Iwobi will now need to concentrate on his short-term fitness instead of his long-term plans.

The Athletic reported that Everton were willing to let Abdoulaye Doucoure leave in January, with Fulham interested.

Those plans may need to change if Iwobi’s injury is worse than first feared.