Victor Anichebe has returned to Everton after picking up a groin injury while on international duty with Nigeria.
The 23-year-old, who suffered the blow in his country's 2-0 win against Madagascar, is expected to be out for around three weeks.
Nigeria coach Samson Siasia criticised the poor pitch in Antananarivo and believes he was fortunate that more players were not injured in the African Nations Cup qualifier.
Anichebe missed the first four months of last season due to an ankle injury.