Everton are in a rich vein of form at the moment, having won four of their last five Premier League games.
David Moyes’ side have turned a corner in recent weeks, and most recently defeated Nottingham Forest 3-0 at the Hill Dickinson Stadium.
Everton were dominant against Forest, and Thierno Barry finally got his first goal for the club after 17 games.
Everton return to action on Saturday as they take on Chelsea at Stamford Bridge, knowing another win would put them above Enzo Maresca’s side.
Are you expecting Everton to make it five wins from six on Saturday? 🤩
Moyes has a really tough decision to make for the clash, and Idrissa Gana Gueye could be set to learn a harsh reality.
Everton could leave Idrissa Gana Gueye out of the starting XI vs Chelsea
Idrissa Gana Gueye was sent off against Manchester United for taking a swipe at his own teammate Michael Keane.
That ruled the Senegal international out of the last three games through suspension, but he is back available for selection this weekend.
It’ll actually be Gueye’s final game before he departs for the Africa Cup of Nations, although he may not actually start.
Idrissa Gana Gueye is back from suspension, but who should David Moyes start in midfield vs Chelsea?
Since he’s been absent, Everton have picked up big wins against Bournemouth and Forest, with Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall flourishing in a deeper role next to James Garner and Tim Iroegbunam.
So, it wouldn’t at all be surprising if Moyes told Gueye that he will be left on the bench against Chelsea. That would be quite harsh, but equally, there’s no reason to change a winning team.
Everton could be without Idrissa Gana Gueye for a month
Saturday’s game could be the last time Everton have Gueye for up to a month, with AFCON getting underway on the 21st of December.
Indeed, he will be departing before that date to prepare for Senegal’s first group stage clash against Botswana.
Thomas Bramall has been appointed referee for Everton vs Chelsea, thoughts Toffees fans? 🤔
Bramall was forced to apologise for some controversial decisions in Everton’s 2-2 draw vs Man United in pre-season.
The final of the tournament takes place on the 18th of January, and Senegal are one of the favourites to reach that stage of the tournament.
So, Moyes may be tempted to recall Harrison Armstrong when the January window opens in a few weeks time.
Merlin Rohl should be back soon, so his return will be a big boost as well.
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