Everton manager David Moyes, Premier League badge in inset.
Credit: Imago
Jack Dawson
Mon 1 December 2025 13:40, UK
Everton could be on the verge of a selection crisis in midfield with James Garner and Tim Iroegbunam close to a suspension.
Despite the Toffees’ starting XI being full of quality, the one thing David Moyes lacks is depth.
This has been clear all season, with Everton using very few players throughout the Premier League campaign.
One position that is particularly light at the moment is the midfield, with Moyes potentially on the verge of a selection crisis.
Everton star James Garner looking challenged
Credit: Imago
Everton may soon be down to two midfielders
As it stands, Everton have six first-team midfielders at the Merseyside club who all regularly get game time. However, going into December, this could be about to change.
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Idrissa Gueye is currently suspended for Everton, and when he is available once again, he may be off to AFCON with Senegal.
Another star who is currently out of action is Merlin Rohl, who has consistently struggled with injuries at Everton since his deadline-day move.
Idrissa Gueye apologises on Instagram ⬇️🟥 pic.twitter.com/gshanMiEGJ
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) November 25, 2025
Now, the Toffees could soon be without both Garner and Iroegbunam.
The duo are both on four yellow cards apiece, meaning if they are booked between now and game week 19, they will serve a one-match ban.
If this were to happen in the same game, it could leave Moyes with just Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall and Carlos Alcaraz in what would no doubt be a selection crisis.
Everton's Tim Iroegbunam in pre-season
Credit: Imago
Hopefully, Moyes will be able to manage the situation over the festive period to ensure this does not occur.
Premier League yellow card rule explained
In the Premier League, if you are booked five times in the opening 19 matches, you pick up a one-match ban.
This saw Dewsbury-Hall suspended earlier this season at Everton after a controversial yellow card against West Ham.
Therefore, if Garner and Iroegbunam avoid a yellow card across their next six fixtures, they will be safe for the time being.
After this, the criteria for a ban will increase to 10 yellow cards, with a two-match suspension being awarded if hit.
After the 32nd game, this increases again to 15 yellow cards, with a three-match suspension being awarded if this is hit.
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