David Moyes Provides Injury Update on Seven Everton Players Ahead of Liverpool Clash | OneFootball

Everton Face Injury Crisis Ahead of Crucial Merseyside Derby

The final Merseyside derby at Goodison Park is set to be a memorable occasion, but Everton manager David Moyes faces a daunting task as injuries threaten to derail their preparations. With up to seven key players sidelined, the Toffees will be stretched thin as they host Liverpool in a high-stakes Premier League clash on Wednesday at 19:30 GMT.

Moyes’ Injury Headache Before Derby Day

Everton’s defensive line is particularly under pressure, with three full-backs nursing injuries. Club captain Seamus Coleman continues to struggle with a persistent calf problem, while Vitalii Mykolenko was forced out of the recent FA Cup loss to Bournemouth due to a similar issue. Adding to Moyes’ woes, Nathan Patterson remains sidelined with a hamstring injury.

Speaking after the Bournemouth match, Moyes provided an update on the situation:

“Myko only reported feeling his calf this morning when I spoke to him. We had the opportunity to make a change at that point, which was straightforward enough. I don’t have any further information on the extent of the issue, but he mentioned it felt a bit tight.”

Photo: IMAGO

Beyond defensive issues, the Toffees are also grappling with absences in midfield and attack. Orel Mangala, on loan from Lyon, has been ruled out for the rest of the season due to an ACL injury. Moyes confirmed at the end of January:

“Mangala will go back. I think we’re waiting for the surgeon to clear it. I think he will be operated on in France.”

Armando Broja, meanwhile, is recovering from an ankle ligament injury. Initially expected to be out for 10-12 weeks, his recovery is reportedly ahead of schedule, and he could return within 4-5 weeks, potentially featuring in early March.

Dominic Calvert-Lewin is another significant absentee, having sustained a hamstring injury against Brighton on January 27. While no exact return date has been set, the striker is expected to be out for several weeks and will consult a specialist for further evaluation.

Dwight McNeil, who recently underwent minor knee surgery, shared an optimistic update on social media:

“Be back soon.”

However, he remains unavailable, having missed the FA Cup defeat to Bournemouth.

Liverpool’s Preparation Amid Setback

Liverpool arrive at Goodison Park after a shock 1-0 FA Cup defeat to Plymouth Argyle. Manager Arne Slot heavily rotated his squad for the fixture, resting key players such as Virgil van Dijk, Ibrahima Konate, Andy Robertson, and Dominik Szoboszlai.

While the loss ended Liverpool’s hopes for an unprecedented quadruple, it could work in their favour, allowing critical players to recharge ahead of the derby. Despite the FA Cup setback, Slot’s men remain formidable in the league, and Everton will need to dig deep to match their intensity.

Photo: IMAGO

Everton’s Recent Form Offers Hope

Despite the injury list, Moyes has managed to galvanise Everton in recent weeks. The Toffees have secured impressive Premier League wins over Tottenham, Brighton, and Leicester City, suggesting a resurgence in form. With financial pressures from PSR concerns easing, there’s a sense of optimism around Goodison Park.

Yet, Moyes remains realistic about the challenge Liverpool poses. Speaking ahead of the derby, he said:

“The derby? I don’t need to talk it up – people know, Evertonians will know what we need and know what is required. Let’s be fair, we are probably not challenging Liverpool Football Club at the moment. We’re not in that position to do so, but we’re going to give it a right good go.”

The final derby at Goodison Park promises to be an emotional affair, with Evertonians eager to see their side put up a fight against their city rivals. However, with injuries mounting, Moyes will need to rely on the depth of his squad to navigate this critical fixture.