Everton defender Seamus Coleman will miss the start of the Premier League season after tearing ankle ligaments during a pre-season friendly against Villarreal on Friday.

Initial x-rays confirmed that the 22-year-old Republic of Ireland international had not broken the bone but a scan yesterday displayed the extent of the damage.

"Seamus has torn the lateral ligament in his right ankle. He will be visiting a specialist in London later this week for further assessment," Everton's head physio Danny Donachie told the club's official website.

Central midfielder Mikel Arteta may also miss the Toffees' opener against Tottenham Hotspur on Saturday with a foot injury.