Dele Alli targets 2026 World Cup after hitting post in Everton return
Alli says he can see the 'light at the end of the tunnel' after playing 81 minutes in comeback game
England international went close to scoring his first Premier League goal in 14 months against Wolves
Dele Alli believes he can see the "light at the end of the tunnel" after making his long-awaited return to action for Everton on Saturday.
The former Tottenham midfielder, who was linked with a move away from Goodison Park in the summer, played 81 minutes of the Toffees' 2-1 defeat to Wolves in his first Premier League appearance since May 2022.
Alli went close to scoring his first Premier League goal in 14 months when he hit the post in the second half, and he is now targeting a place in England's squad for the 2026 World Cup.
"It was great to be back out there," Alli said after the game. "I've been working hard in training and I'm just happy to be back playing again.
"I think I can see the light at the end of the tunnel now. I'm feeling fit and strong, and I'm just looking forward to getting back to my best.
"I'm not sure if I'll be ready for the next England squad, but that's my goal. I want to be playing at the highest level again, and that means playing for England.
"I'm confident that I can get back to my best and I'm excited for the future."
Alli was one of several young English players who were tipped for stardom after impressing at the 2018 World Cup.
However, his career has stalled in recent years, and he has not played for England since 2019.
A return to form for Alli would be a major boost for Everton, who are currently struggling in the Premier League.
The Toffees are 19th in the table, just one point above the relegation zone, and they have not won a league game since October.
Alli's return could help to provide some much-needed creativity and attacking threat to Everton's team.
The 26-year-old is a talented player, and he will be hoping to prove that he still has what it takes to play at the highest level.
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