Everton head into the final Premier League fixtures of 2025 encouraged by recent performances but still managing several key absences as they prepare to face Burnley and Nottingham Forest.
The Toffees were unfortunate to leave Hill Dickinson Stadium empty-handed against league leaders Arsenal on Saturday, going down 1-0 after two second-half penalty appeals were waved away. While chances were limited, David Moyes took positives — particularly on the injury front — ahead of a crucial festive period.
Fitness boosts already welcomed
Before kick-off against Arsenal, David Moyes received two timely boosts. Jack Grealish was passed fit to start despite a recent hamstring issue, while Merlin Röhl returned to action from the bench for the first time since early November.
Moyes will now be hoping further reinforcements follow suit as Everton approach must-win games against teams around them in the table.
Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall injury update
Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall was a notable absentee against Arsenal after suffering a hamstring injury against Chelsea on 13 December — an afternoon the midfielder will want to forget.
Moyes said prior to the Arsenal match: “Kiernan is doing well but not available for the game. He'll be a big miss for us… We have [a timeline], but I'm not telling you.”
The former Leicester City man had been in outstanding form prior to the setback, contributing three goals and two assists in five matches and playing a central role in Everton’s four-match winning run — including a decisive strike at Old Trafford.
Potential returning date: Early January 2026 (Burnley likely too soon)
Jarrad Branthwaite injury update
Jarrad Branthwaite has yet to feature this season due to a long-term hamstring injury but is finally making progress.
The centre-back has returned to light training on grass, a significant milestone in his recovery. However, a comeback against Burnley is considered unlikely, with Everton targeting a more cautious return in the New Year.
Potential returning date: January 2026
Seamus Coleman injury update
Club captain Seamus Coleman is also recovering from a hamstring issue and remains unavailable for the festive fixtures.
Everton are hopeful Coleman will be able to rejoin the squad early in the New Year, with no intention of rushing the veteran defender back given his importance to the group.
Potential returning date: Early January 2026
Key Insights
- Everton have received recent fitness boosts but key players remain sidelined.
- Dewsbury-Hall is unlikely to feature against Burnley.
- Branthwaite and Coleman are both targeting January returns.
- AFCON duties will delay Ndiaye and Gueye’s availability.
- Moyes is cautiously optimistic heading into the New Year.
What’s next?
Everton face Burnley next before a trip to Nottingham Forest, with points vital in the battle to climb away from the bottom end of the table. Moyes will be keen to manage workloads carefully while welcoming back players at the right time rather than taking unnecessary risks.
The opening of the January transfer window may also influence recovery plans — but getting key performers back fit could prove just as important as any new signing.
Who do Everton need back most urgently — Dewsbury-Hall or Branthwaite?
0 Comments
First read message
Leave a comment
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *