James Tarkowski is a surprise absentee from Everton’s squad to face Arsenal on Saturday afternoon.
David Moyes has put together a makeshift backline following two separate injury blows for the Toffees.
Jarrad Branthwaite’s minutes need to be managed after he has raised concerns of a setback after his Everton return.
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
The Toffees face a tough challenge, with Tarkowski missing due to his own injury
Everton v Burnley - Premier League
Photo by James Gill – Danehouse/Getty Images
James Tarkowski misses Arsenal vs Everton through injury
According to one club insider on X, Tarkowski is missing the game in north London after picking up an injury in Finch Farm training.
“Jarrad Branthwaite does not feature today for the game against Arsenal whilst James Tarkowski misses out due to an injury sustained in training,” he said.
Get your guesses in! Bonus points for those who remember the score too 👀
Everton vs Arsenal stat.
MORE EVERTON STORIES
There was no mention of any issues during Moyes’ press conference on Friday morning, which may hint towards the issue being sustained in the final training session.
“We’re missing two centre-halves today but we’ve also got two who have done really well. It shouldn’t make too much difference, hopefully,” Moyes added.
It must also be noted that Moyes suggested that Branthwaite was also good to go against the Gunners.
Tarkowski had played every single minute of Premier League football for Everton this season, but that will now come to an end.
A huge loss for the Blues against the side sitting top of the Premier League table.
With European qualification on the line, there could not be a worse time for Everton to be losing key players to injury.
Join Our Newsletter
Receive a digest of our best Everton content each week direct to your mailbox