Tiote Fails Medical For Goodison

Last updated : 14 September 2012 By Footy Mad - Editor

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Gael Bigirimana is expected to be drafted into the team.

Teenager Bigirimana, signed from Coventry City in the summer, impressed in the centre of midfield alongside Tiote’s midfield partner Yohan Cabaye in the 1-1 draw against Aston Villa earlier this month.

Tiote suffered a calf injury in the opening game of the season, and has been sidelined for the past four games.

United manager Alan Pardew had hoped to have the 26-year-old available to face Everton but he won’t be risked.

The Ivory Coast international is now pencilled in for a comeback against Chris Hughton’s Norwich City at St James’s Park on September 23.

Alan Pardew: “He won’t play on Monday night.

“But he’s a lot better, and he’s got a good chance for Norwich we think.

“You’re talking about one of the top Premier League players in my opinion.

“In my view, he’s one of the top 10 Premier League midfielders, and it’s a big hole for us.

“But we have a lot of good players still haven’t been seen at this football club yet.”