Everton player power rankings: Jordan Pickford misses out, new signing in at 2

Everton's squad has been more than a sum of its parts in the early stages of the season.

After a hugely disappointing end to the summer transfer window, David Moyes is operating with one arm tied behind his back.

Yet it could be argued that is exactly how the Scotsman likes it, given he is an expert at getting the most out of individuals.

Everton have started the season seven without defeat in all competitions for just the third time this century.

That includes five games unbeaten in the Premier League, with nine points from a possible 15 leaving Everton seventh at this early stage.

With the first international break of the season now here, Goodison News compiles its inaugural player power rankings below.

5 - Vitalii Mykolenko

Vitalii Mykolenko has so often been a frustrating presence among the Blues' fanbase, but credit where credit is due.

The Ukraine international has always been someone Moyes feels he can call upon whenever needed.

Mykolenko was superb against Tottenham and he has played a part in three successive clean sheets in all competitions.

A surprise name he may be on this maiden list, but fully deserved all the same.

4 - Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall

Another player who Moyes just knows he can always rely upon, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall has barely put a foot wrong so far this season.

The midfielder has played every minute so far in the top flight and has one goal to his name.

Dewsbury-Hall has the carrot of an England call-up dangling in front of him. He now just needs to keep this up ahead of the November international break.

3 - Jarrad Branthwaite

Jarrad Branthwaite, like James Garner, is one of those who has already been rewarded by Thomas Tuchel.

The centre-back is back involved with England, which is thanks to his superb start to the campaign with the Toffees.

Branthwaite has stayed fit after an injury-plagued campaign last time out, featuring in all 450 league minutes so far.

2 - Ainsley Maitland-Niles

The only one of Everton's new signings on the list, Ainsley Maitland-Niles has take no time at all to get settled.

Everton have been desperate for a specialised right-back for ages now and, while Maitland-Niles was not exactly top choice for many - perhaps even Moyes - he has proved a superb addition.

The strike against Manchester United is a clear highlight, but his all-round game has also been very strong.

1 - James Tarkowski

Some big names miss out on this list, not least Jordan Pickford (he was just outside, for those wondering) and Jack Grealish.

But there has surely been nobody better than James Tarkowski in Everton's strong start to the campaign.

The centre-back has been a rock and has even chipped in with a goal against Brighton to rescue a late point and an assist for the only goal against Ipswich last time out.

That defensive solidity and an ability to also help out at the other end of the field makes him Everton's best player right now.