FOOTBALL EXTRA

EVERTON could be without midfielder James McCarthy (right) for more than a month. The ex-Hamilton midfielder has undergone surgery on a groin problem. Everton are already short in midfield after missing out on a deadline-day deal for Moussa Sissoko, who joined Tottenham.

IRN-BRU Cup round-four fixture changes: Crusaders v Livingston, Oct 7 (7.45pm). Bala Town v Alloa, Oct 8 (1pm). QoS v Linfield, Oct 9 (1pm).

FORMER Arsenal midfielder Mathieu Flamini has joined Premier League rivals Crystal Palace on a contract until the end of the season.