Everton early team news vs Sunderland: David Moyes drops Nathan Patterson update as new doubts emerge
David Moyes has provided an update on his team’s availability ahead of Monday’s trip to the Stadium of Light.
Everton will face Sunderland as the Scot looks to prevent his team from losing three consecutive Premier League games for the first time this season.
The Toffees were defeated by Manchester City and Tottenham in their last two, but will hope to change their fortunes against the Black Cats.
Everton are the favourites against Sunderland, despite the North East club’s brilliant return to the Premier League.
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David Moyes provides update on Nathan Patterson
Jarrad Branthwaite underwent surgery on a hamstring issue last week, with the defender suffering a setback in his recovery.
The defender is yet to make an appearance this season, and was expected to be back by now, but will now likely spend several more weeks on the injury table.
Nathan Patterson was the only other player to miss out through injury against Tottenham, with the Scot also yet to appear this season, despite featuring on the bench.
On Friday, Moyes provided an update on his squad’s fitness ahead of the Sunderland clash.
The Everton boss first explained the absence of Patterson, who has “had a small procedure on his groin” and will not be available.
Moyes also suggested that the Toffees are waiting to confirm the availability of several players, whom he would not name.
“A couple of knocks and bruises, and a couple of people with little bits, but hopefully we’ll be ok,” the Scot said.
Sunderland will not welcome Moyes back
Moyes was in charge at the Stadium of Light for the 2016-17, when Sunderland were relegated. It was a putrid season for the Black Cats, with the Scot leaving at the end of it.
Speaking after his departure, he said: “I didn’t do enough due diligence. I came back and made a poor choice in the club I chose.”
David Moyes Sunderland
Matches 43
Wins 8
Draws 7
Losses 28
Scored 32
Conceded 73
Understandably, Sunderland fans took exception to that comment, and the bad feelings towards the Everton boss have not gone away.
And those feelings will be present on Monday, with Regis Le Bris sure to utilise the inevitable drive for revenge in the stands.
