Joseph Yobo is receiving the full support of Everton after brother, Norum Yobo, was kidnapped in Port Harcourt, Nigeria last week.

Everton's head of PR and external affairs, Ian Ross, said: "We have sent a couple of messages to Joseph offering any assistance that we can provide him.

"He had been given leave to return late to pre-season training next week because of his international duties for Nigeria this summer. Obviously, this family misfortune means he will stay out there for the foreseeable future.

"Things like this put football and life in perspective. The thoughts of the players, management, staff, fans and everyone connected to Everton FC are with Joseph and his family at this time. We can only hope that Joseph's brother is released without harm."