A number of stars are expected to be missing for Everton’s game against Southampton this weekend.
The Toffees are looking to go six games unbeaten on the south coast against a side yet to taste victory in the Premier League this season.
Everton were beaten by the Saints in the Carabao Cup earlier this season but will be in confident spirits after an upturn in results.
Southampton will be without seven first-teamers after being hit by a virus but Sean Dyche will also be without some key players, but will also be boosted by the return to fitness for one star.
Armando Broja – out
Armando Broja is still yet to feature for Everton since his deadline-day loan move from Chelsea.
Since then, the forward has been nursing an injury, and no return date has been set for the Albania international.
Given the amount of time he has spent on the sidelines, minutes with the Under-21s will be likely before he is involved in first-team action.
Youssef Chermiti – out
Similarly to Broja, Youssef Chermiti has been out since the start of the season with a foot problem that Dyche described as “strange”.
The young Portuguese forward is still another few weeks away from being in contention and will also need game time at U21 level before being considered.
Tim Iroegbunam – out
Before the Fulham draw, Dyche confirmed that the young midfielder had suffered a stress fracture in his foot and would be out for a couple of weeks.
A return against West Ham United on 9 November could be likely, but Tim Iroegbunam will probably be out until after the international break.
James Garner – doubtful
James Garner has been suffering from a back issue and almost certainly won’t be ready to return until after the November international break.
Dyche spoke about the incident last week, saying: “It is a different thing. I don’t know the exact science of it but I think it is just more wear and tear.”
Garner posted an image of himself working in the gym on social media in a positive update but it’s unlikely he will be risked.
Dwight McNeil – doubtful
The winger was subbed off in the closing stages of last week’s draw at Goodison Park and Dyche is expected to provide an update on his fitness during his latest press conference.
Jarrad Branthwaite – available
Jarrad Branthwaite is being reintroduced back into the first team after his injury lay-off and came on as a sub against Fulham.
The form of Michael Keane and James Tarkowski may mean he has to bide his time but Branthwaite is more than ready to start.
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