Everton aim to pick up their first points of the 2023-24 Premier League season when they travel to Aston Villa on Sunday (14.00 BST).
The Toffees suffered a 1-0 loss to Fulham on the opening day of the campaign although there were positives to take.
Sean Dyche’s side created more than enough chances to win the game, especially in the first half, but just couldn’t put the ball in the back of the net. Still, the Everton boss would have taken the positives given he had a depleted squad to select from. Dominic Calvert-Lewin was not risked for the game having been carefully monitored over the summer because of his issues he’s suffered during the past two years.
The striker did get 90 minutes under his belt in a training game against Manchester United.
Villa will also have their tails up after suffering a 5-1 thrashing at the hands of Newcastle United. Having made a surge to qualify for the Europa Conference League last season, a drubbing at St James’ Park was last thing they were hoping for. Unai Emery will be demading a response.
Both sides have injury concerns ahead of the clash at Villa Park and here’s an early look at how things stand on that front.
5. Youssef Chermiti - out
The striker signed for Everton from Sporting CP last week. However, Dyche has admitted that Chermiti is still short of match fitness and he’ll need time to get fully up to speed. | Getty Images Photo: Gualter Fatia/Getty Images
6. Dwight McNeil - out
Dyche admitted that the Everton winger is only just starting to get out running on the grass as he battles back from ankle ligament damage. | Getty Images Photo: Matt McNulty/Getty Images
7. Jack Harrison - out
The on-loan Leeds United forward has a hip injury he’ll first have to recover from before making his Everton debut. | Getty Images Photo: Gareth Copley/Getty Images
8. Seamus Coleman - out
A knee injury the Everton captain suffered in April means he’s still unavailable. | Getty Images Photo: Michael Regan/Getty Images