Everton have been hit with some really big injury concerns in recent weeks, and it comes during a very busy period.
Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall was forced off with a hamstring injury against Chelsea, and David Moyes admitted post-match that he was already feeling tightness before the clash.
Moyes also noted that Grealish suffered an injury: “Jack felt his hamstring so we just need to be careful with these boys.”
There’s been no word on how serious it may be or whether he could miss the Arsenal clash this weekend, but clearly the Scotsman will have to take precautions with the Manchester City loanee.
With that said, Grealish’s potential absence could see a very exciting Everton teenager promoted from the academy.
David Moyes could promote Justin Clarke to Everton first-team
Everton have some really exciting youngsters coming through the Finch Farm academy, and none more so than Justin Clarke.
Clarke joined the Toffees from Wimbledon in September 2024 when he was just 16-years-old and he’s quickly risen through the age groups.
Would you like to see Justin Clarke given opportunities in the first-team?
The jet-heeled wide player tore it up with the under-18s last term and was quickly moved up to the reserve team.
Clarke has continued to impress, and Moyes has actually promoted him to first-team training at points this season.
So, if Grealish were to be absent for a few games, the Scotsman may well include Clarke in the squad, and he could get some minutes from the bench.
Everton fans were blown away by Clarke in pre-season when he played against Accrington Stanley.
Justin Clarke took confidence from playing with the senior team in pre-season
Clarke’s exceptional performances for the under-21s were rewarded with a first professional contract in the summer.
After penning his new deal, the former Wimbledon wonderkid reflected on his cameo for the Everton first-team in pre-season.
“I’ll always be confident, and I’ll never abandon my gameplan,” Clarke said.
“That’s just me. I had the backing of the coaches and the players, so I knew I could do what I normally do.
“I think it was a good experience. It’s such a good group with lots of characters, so it was great for me and my development to be learning new things.
“I just want to be the best I can be. That’s all I can be, really. I’m finding it good so far. The Under-21s are more experienced and it’s a good coaching staff. I don’t want to rush anything, but I’m looking forward to the season.”
It was initially thought that Clarke could make his debut in the third round of the FA Cup against Sunderland, but Moyes may be forced to bring him in earlier than he potentially planned.
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