Everton fans are yet to really see much of their summer signing Merlin Rohl following two injury issues already.
The German midfielder has signed on an initial loan deal from SC Freiburg which Everton hold the obligation to make permanent.
Rohl is, therefore, here to stay on Merseyside, but his early start has been a frustrating one for the 23-year-old.
After undergoing surgery on a hernia, Rohl is not expected to return to Everton until January.
The injury only adds to the list of midfielders currently unavailable for Moyes following Idrissa Gana Gueye and Tim Iroegbunam’s suspensions.
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With just four appearances in the Premier League under his belt, Rohl has now opened up to the fans on his early difficulties.
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Merlin Rohl shares his early Everton struggles
During his early weeks at the club, it was claimed that Rohl was really impressing in Everton training at Finch Farm.
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However, that did not translate into match minutes as the German suffered an initial injury issue that did keep him out for three games.
Speaking in an Everton Q&A session, the midfielder has now shared what he has enjoyed and also found difficult since moving to Merseyside.
“I love it here! It was a big move for me personally to go to a different country,” he said.
“Yeah, I’ve seen some differences with the lifestyle and cultural differences, and, of course, the language. Trying to get better at the language and get better at understanding the accent here.
“I’m trying to be part of the team here and to talk with everyone. I like the country and I like the people here.”
Alan Stubbs was excited to see what Rohl could offer over the run of games without Gueye in the side, but that has now been put on hold.
The injury issues will be frustrating for the midfielder, but he is clearly working hard away from the pitch to make his transition into the Premier League as simple as possible.
Everton’s midfield options will be tested against Nottingham Forest
Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall enjoyed playing in the deeper midfield role for Everton on Tuesday evening.
The 28-year-old will be expected to maintain his spot in the midfield two just in front of the defence, but Moyes has some big decisions to make.
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Injuries elsewhere saw James Garner pushed back to right-back, but he may now be needed back in his natural spot.
The setback with Rohl is proving a real blow and a huge missed opportunity for the German to get some vital minutes under his belt.
Everton News columnist Alan Myers wants to see another midfielder signed in January, and the Blues are going to be left with no other option at this stage.
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