Everton manager Rafa Benitez is optimistic about the fitness of left-back Lucas Digne ahead of the new season.

The Frenchman was injured while on international duty with his nation at Euro 2020.

The 27-year-old defender was a doubt for the start of the new Premier League season, but Benitez believes he will be ready to go.

"I had contact with him [on Wednesday morning], he is training well, doing his job and ready to join the team as soon as possible," said Benitez to the club's website.

"He is a great professional and I know he is working hard.

"My exchange of messages with him has been good because he is telling me he is nearly ready."