David Moyes takes Jack Grealish gamble as two axed – Everton predicted XI vs Nottingham Forest
Everton are sweating on Jack Grealish’s fitness for the trip to Nottingham Forest, which could hamper David Moyes’ plans.
Grealish missed Everton’s 0-0 draw with Burnley last time out through illness, and he may be absent for the City Ground clash on 30 December.
Dwight McNeil was dismal as he replaced Grealish for Everton, so Moyes will be keen to have the Manchester City loanee back, as soon as possible.
Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall and Jarrad Branthwaite are also expected to miss out, and Iliman Ndiaye and Idrissa Gueye are still at the Africa Cup of Nations.
How might Moyes line up for Nottingham Forest contest?
Everton boss Moyes might have to gamble and play Grealish even if he is not fully fit for the trip to face Sean Dyche’s side, as he is far too important to his team.
The Blues lacked creativity at Turf Moor, and the 30-year-old would solve that problem, which is even more important with the other absentees.
McNeil struggled at his former stomping ground, and Grealish would be a huge upgrade on the exit-linked man if he came back into the starting line-up.
Jordan Pickford is expected to retain his place between the sticks, with Jake O’Brien, James Tarkowski, Michael Keane and Vitalii Mykolenko staying in the backline.
Tim Iroegbunam and James Garner are predicted to reprise their roles in the middle of the park, with Carlos Alcaraz also expected to remain in the number 10 spot.
Grealish and Tyler Dilbing might be the best options for the flanks, with Thierno Barry predicted to lead the line instead of Beto.
What are the alternative options for Moyes?
Moyes could do something slightly different, he could drop Mykolenko for Adam Aznou, but the young defender does not have much experience.
The Scotsman does not have many options on the bench, as he was forced to have two academy youngsters and two goalkeepers last time out.
Nathan Patterson and Merlin Rohl may be knocking on the door, after returning to fitness, but whether Moyes decides to utilise them against Dyche’s side, remains to be seen.
The suggested side is probably his best available at the moment, but it depends on the state of his squad.
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