Everton midfielder James McCarthy is facing a spell on the sidelines of up to three weeks with a hamstring injury.

Boss Ronald Koeman revealed the news on Thursday afternoon as the Toffees prepare for the visit to last season's champions Leicester City on Boxing Day.

"McCarthy is out with a slight hamstring and that's bad news because he was doing well," Koeman said.

"I am worried because of his many muscle problems but I think he can be back in two or three weeks."