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.
9. Dele Alli - out
Suffered a setback in his recovery from hip surgery he had in April. Dyche did say that the Everton winger is feeling well in himself but will still need time. | Getty Images Photo: George Wood/Getty Images
10. Jean-Philippe Gbamin - out
Been recovering from an injury he suffered on loan at Trabzonspor last season and did not feature in pre-season. | AFP via Getty Images
11. Bertrand Traore - doubt
Missed the entirety of Villa’s pre-season after picking up an injury on Burkina Faso duty in June and working his way back to full fitness. | Getty Images Photo: Ian Hitchcock/Getty Images
12. Jhon Duran - doubt
Another who has not made an appearance since the end of last season for Villa. | Getty Images