Everton have endured a difficult start to their 2023-24 Premier League season.
After four games, the Toffees are still without a victory - and sections of supporters are already fearing that another relegation battle is on the cards. Not only have Sean Dyche’s side not won a match but they’ve accrued just one point from a possible 12. That leaves them sitting in the drop zone.
However, Dyche has been encouraged by some of the performances Everton have delivered. They were held to a 2-2 draw against Sheffield United before the international break, having led at Bramall Lane, while the Blues created enough chances in 1-0 losses to Fulham and Wolves respectively.
At this early stage of the campaign, Everton have had more injury issues than they might have expected and Dyche admitted the squad was stretched at Sheffield United. The Goodison Park chief is hopeful that players will return for when Arsenal travel to L4 on Saturday 16 September. With that in mind, here’s a look at when those with injuries could be back in action.
5. Lewis Dobbin - knock
The young forward missed the Sheff Utd draw with a block. However, Dyche is hopeful Dobbin will be fine after the international break. Potential return game: Arsenal (H), Sun 17 Sept. | Getty Images
6. Michael Keane - knock
The centre-back also had a knock at Sheff Utd, with Dyche again hopeful Keane won’t be sidelined for too long and he was in training last week. Potential return game: Arsenal (H), Sun 17 Sept. | Getty Images
7. Andre Gomes - calf
Dyche cited the midfielder had a tight calf before the loss to Aston Villa last month and he’s be absent for the previous three games. However, Gomez - linked with a move to Turkey before their window shuts on Friday - Potential return game: Arsenal (H), Sun 17 Sept. | Getty Images
8. Jack Harrison - hip
Everton will use the break to get the on-loan Leeds United winger closer to a playing return. Dyche admitted after Sheff Utd that Harrison will be ‘closer’ but could not give a time frame on when the ex-Man City man will be available. Potential return game: N/A | Getty Images