In a tale familiar to Middlesbrough fans but becoming more of a problem for clubs further-a-field, a Brazilian star has once again found the climate of South America preferable to that of the northern hemisphere. This time, it is Everton’s on-loan striker Jo who landed himself in hot water as well as on hot soil.

 

The 22 year-old, currently in his second loan spell from Eastlands, returned to Brazil without permission during the festive break and has been suspended by the club. His 24 appearances, mostly from the bench, have produced 2 goals but the man who amassed 44 strikes in 77 games for CSKA Moscow before leaving Russia for the Premier League and a near £20M move to Manchester City a little over a year and a half ago has failed to live up to his billing. Manager David Moyes was less than impressed.

"We like Jo but there has to be discipline at football clubs," said the Toffee’s boss, "He left over a busy period and left us short of players. We've suspended him from the club. It might change but at the moment that's the situation."

One man in favour at Goodison Park is Alan Irvine, recently dismissed by Preston North End. He previously worked as Moyes’ assistant and the Scot has told Irvine that he is more than welcome to work at Everton’s training ground until he finds another suitable position.