Everton manager David Moyes has delivered a mixed injury bulletin ahead of his side's pivotal Premier League encounter with league leaders Arsenal this Saturday.
Key Midfielder Ruled Out
Speaking at his pre-match press conference on Friday, Moyes confirmed a significant blow, revealing that influential midfielder Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall will miss the game. The player sustained a thigh injury during last week's defeat at Chelsea, limping off after just 16 minutes at Stamford Bridge.
Dewsbury-Hall's absence is a major setback for the Toffees. Prior to his injury, he was arguably one of the division's most in-form players, contributing three goals and two assists in his previous five Premier League appearances.
When pressed for a timeline on the midfielder's return, Moyes offered a characteristically coy response: 'We have, but I’m not telling you!'
Grealish Given Green Light
There was more positive news regarding Jack Grealish. The Manchester City loanee, who also felt a hamstring issue in the same match at Chelsea, has been passed fit. 'Jack is okay. Jack will be fit and available to play, yes,' Moyes stated.
The manager also expressed hope that midfielder Merlin Rohl would recover in time to feature. Grealish's return is timely, though his goal contributions have dwindled recently, with just one goal in his last several outings after a bright start at Goodison Park.
High-Stakes Clash at Hill Dickinson Stadium
The injury updates come before a crucial fixture for both sides. Arsenal, fresh from a dramatic late win over Wolves, travel to Merseyside knowing victory will ensure they top the Premier League table at Christmas. With Manchester City and Aston Villa close behind, the margin for error is slim.
Everton, however, pose a formidable challenge at their new home, the Hill Dickinson Stadium. They have lost only two of their nine games there this season and have won four of their last six matches overall. The loss of Dewsbury-Hall, combined with Iliman Ndiaye's absence at the Africa Cup of Nations, increases the creative burden on Grealish for the home side.
Saturday's match promises to be a tense and tactical battle as Moyes looks to mastermind another upset against the title-chasing Gunners.
