James Garner playing for Everton and a Manchester United badge
James Garner playing for Everton and a Manchester United badge
It had been a largely positive campaign to the season for David Moyes' side after four points from a possible six in the Premier League.
That had left many looking ahead to Sunday's meeting with the Red Devils with plenty of optimism.
Any positivity has since been crushed after a shocking end to the transfer window saw Folarin Balogun walk out on a deal.
David Moyes has to change the feeling around the Toffees quickly and has the chance to do that against his old side.
Everton are set to welcome Man United to Hill Dickinson Stadium as we assess how they could line-up.
Everton could make defensive change vs Manchester United
The end of the window has caused a stir on Merseyside, but can't change the consistency that the Blues have had within their squad.
The trio did well against Bournemouth, with the skipper netting the late equaliser at the Vitality.
Vitaliy Mykolenko started on the south coast, and could do so again, but will may be joined by a fresh full-back colleague.
Merlin Rohl featured last time out and could be replaced should Jake O'Brien come back into the starting XI.
That could follow suit in midfield as one change may be in the pipeline.
Hayden Hackney started at the Hill Dickinson against Crystal Palace and could come back in as a replacement for James Garner once more.
The summer signing could start alongside Harrison Armstrong who may be in line for another Premier League start.
Will Jack Grealish start vs Man United?
The forward line provides Moyes with a decision to make.
Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall could keep his place in the number 10, while Tyrique George could face the same fate on the left.
The right-wing role is the issue after the departure of Iliman Ndiaye to Manchester City on deadline day.
Jack Grealish has come back in on loan, but it may be Tyler Dibling who gets the nod against Man United.
These could all be working to supply Thierno Barry as he is now the only recognised senior striker available to the Toffees.
Crystal Palace Football Club
Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall
Iliman Ndiaye
Tyler Dibling
James Alan Tarkowski
James Garner
Jarrad Branthwaite
AFC Bournemouth
Jack Grealish
Vitaliy Mykolenko
Manchester United Football Club
Everton Football Club
Harrison Armstrong
Hayden Hackney
Jake O'Brien
Jordan Pickford
Thierno Barry
Tyrique George
Manchester City Football Club
David Moyes
Merlin Rohl
Folarin Balogun