Jack Grealish out, David Moyes recalls summer signing – Everton predicted XI vs Arsenal
David Moyes has a huge dilemma in his Everton squad ahead of their Premier League clash with Arsenal on Saturday.
Arsenal are tipped to beat Everton, and considering the lack of players Moyes has at his disposal, it could prove to be a tricky evening at the Hill Dickinson Stadium.
Everton are without Iliman Ndiaye and Idrissa Gueye for the festive period due to their commitments at AFCON, leaving them on the back foot already.
With Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall and Jack Grealish also coming off injured in the 2-0 loss to Chelsea, they are clearly facing a race against time to be fit.
Jack Grealish won’t be fit in time as David Moyes makes four changes
Moyes confirmed that Grealish felt an issue with his hamstring after the Chelsea defeat.
The 30-year-old has become a fan favourite in L4, and his creative influence would be dearly missed against the league leaders, who possess the best defensive record in the top flight.
Grealish hinted he may feature against Arsenal, although it remains unclear if Moyes will risk playing his talisman ahead of the busy Christmas schedule.
| Stat | Everton |
| Wins | 7 |
| Draws | 3 |
| Losses | 6 |
| Points | 24 |
| League position | 9th |
With Grealish and Ndiaye not involved, Tyler Dibling and Dwight McNeil will likely be called into action.
After impressing for Southampton last season, Dibling has struggled to get a look in for the Toffees since his £40milllion summer move.
With the Gunners suffering injuries in defence, the 19-year-old has the perfect opportunity to announce himself to the Everton faithful.
The other changes could see Tim Iroegbunam replace Gueye, while Carlos Alcaraz will likely have the important role of filling in for the impressive Dewsbury-Hall.
As for the rest of the team, the defence will remain the same, while Thierno Barry looks set to continue his starting role up front.
- Read more: Door opens for Everton to sign one of the Premier League’s best defenders for potential bargain
Tim Iroegbunam can prove his worth vs Arsenal
Having joined the Toffees from Aston Villa in 2024, he has only made 35 appearances and is still taking his time to develop into a Premier League player.
However, it’s clear to see that Iroegbunam should start consistently for Everton, and his performances since coming into the team have been promising.
He was dropped when Gueye returned from his three-match ban against Chelsea, but the English midfielder is set to have a run of games unchallenged.
Alongside James Garner, he has the perfect midfield partner who can allow him to express himself going forward, while also keeping things locked down at the back.
If he can string together some impressive displays, then Gueye will face a fight when he returns.
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