David Moyes has given an injury update ahead of the game against Sunderland on Monday.
The Toffees travel to the Stadium of Light to take on Regis Le Bris’ in-form Black Cats.
The newly promoted side occupy fourth in the league, six points above the Blues.
Indeed, with five wins and two draws out of their opening nine games, the Mackems are off to a flyer.
It’ll be a challenging game for Moyes’ side, though the Scot confirmed there are no fresh injury concerns.
Speaking at his press conference this afternoon, Moyes did state that Jarrad Branthwaite and Nathan Patterson remain unavailable.
He said: “[Patterson] has had a small procedure on his groin so he’s obviously not available for this game.
“We’ve got a couple of knocks and bruises and one or two people with a couple of little bits but hopefully we’ll be okay.”
SUNDERLAND WILL BE TOUGH TEST FOR TOFFEES
Everton will be looking to get back to winning ways after hitting a slump with consecutive defeats.
Sunderland meanwhile have won two on the spin, including last week’s dramatic victory at Stamford Bridge.
The Everton manager has hinted he may make a tactical tweak however, which could give Sunderland something to consider.
Indeed, the Scot suggested Iliman Ndiaye could feature upfront, rather than on the wing.
The Senegalese international is our leading scorer this season with three goals, two more than Beto.
I would also advocate a change to our right-back position. While Jake O’Brien has done well, he’s clearly not a full-back.
Perhaps Moyes could utilise James Garner’s versatility, with Merlin Rohl slotting into midfield.
The Scot is unlikely to make too many changes, but we have become far too predictable in recent weeks.
A change or two on Monday evening would be a welcome sight.