Everton take on Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium where David Moyes will be hoping to maintain his excellent record on the road.
The Toffees come into the game on the back of some time off following their warm-weather training camp in Portugal.
Jarrad Branthwaite did not travel to Portugal as it has been revealed Everton need to manage his minutes.
What do you make of this side? 😬
Iliman Ndiaye of Everton during the Premier League match between Fulham and Everton.
Credit: Getty Images/Izzy Poles – AMA
Amid concerns of a potential injury setback, Moyes has decided against starting the defender.
Newcastle United v Everton - Premier League
Photo by Michael Driver/MI News/NurPhoto via Getty Images
Jarrad Branthwaite does not start for Everton vs Arsenal
It has been made clear that Everton have concerns over managing Branthwaite’s minutes on the back of his return from a lengthy injury.
“There are times where you have to look after the players. I think the time of Jarrad’s injury, the length of his injury, meant that we were always going to have to be mindful of it,” Moyes told the media on Friday.
What do you think is Jarrad Branthwaite’s best position? 🤔
Moyes is convinced he's just as good at left-back… 😬
Jarrad Branthwaite of Everton during the pre-season friendly match between Everton and AS Roma. David Moyes, head coach of Everton, during the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Everton at St James' Park.
Credit: Getty Images/Jan Kruger/James Gill – Danehouse.
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However, Michael Keane has been given the nod for the game against the Gunners in north London.
The veteran Everton defender has already made 25 Premier League appearances this season, following Branthwaite’s absence.
Keane is hoping to remain at Everton beyond his contract, which ends this summer. He now has a big opportunity to prove himself.
Jake O’Brien replaces missing James Tarkowski
It would appear as if James Tarkowski has also picked up an injury concern.
The 32-year-old defender was not mentioned in Moyes’ press conference on Friday, with a major reshuffle at the back.
A new-look centre-back pairing will be tested and James Garner returns to his right-back spot.
This is far from a full strength backline, which Moyes gave absolutely no hints towards when he spoke to the media.
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