There was a worrying moment at the beginning of Everton’s clash at home to Manchester City after Toffees forward Theo Walcott was forced off with a head injury in the early stages of the match.
Walcott was handed a starting spot for the visit of the champions but his game was all over inside seven minutes.
After blocking Raheem Sterling’s cross from the left, Walcott stayed down.
Everton’s medical staff came on to help a disorientated-looking Walcott swiftly, who was responsive to their treatment.
He was seen clutching his head at points and although it’s not exactly clear what his injury is but it’s suspected he’s suffering from concussion.
And it was decided the 30-year-old would play no further part in the game and he was taken off the pitch on a stretcher.
Alex Iwobi was brought on in his place.
It was later confirmed that Walcott was taken to hospital but is still being assessed.
This is a big blow for Walcott, who was making his first start of the season.
And it was a less than ideal situation for Marco Silva being forced into a change like that so early in the game.
However, Everton gave a good account of themselves and looked to be frustrating the champions after Dominic Calvert-Lewin cancelled out Gabriel Jesus’ opener.
But second-half goals from Riyad Mahrez and Sterling saw City run out 3-1 winners and stay five points behind Premier League leaders Liverpool.