Match Coverage

Sean Dyche says he’s still not decided if two Everton players will start vs West Ham this weekend

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Everton return to Goodison Park this weekend to take on David Moyes’ West Ham United, who head into the affair off the back of a 4-2 win against Brentford.

The Toffees moved up from 17th to 15th in the Premier League table this week after being handed back four points.

Still, a second charge lingers over the Merseysiders, so another possible points deduction is on the cards.

With that said, Sean Dyche will have to avoid any complacency that may crop up in his side and motivate them ahead of Saturday’s game, especially with some fitness doubts emerging ahead of the clash.

Idrissa Gana Gueye and Amadou Onana doubts vs West Ham

Tottenham Hotspur v Everton FC - Premier League
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Dyche provided an injury update for Idrissa Gana Gueye and Amadou Onana ahead of Saturday’s clash against West Ham.

“He’s (Gueye) still settling down,” Dyche told the media on Thursday. “Amadou’s got a groin thing similar to Gana which is just settling down so we’ll make more of a decision on them tomorrow.”

The Toffees boss also issued an update on the fitness of Dele and Andre Gomes, who has not featured since January.

“Andre’s been back on the grass with us. He’s going well. And Dele’s focus is just getting fit. Nothing other than that. Obviously he’s got a period yet but I mean he’s just focusing on that”

Everton’s midfield selection dilemma

With Gueye, Onana and Gomes all potentially out of Saturday’s game, Dyche has a bit of a selection dilemma in midfield.

Gueye has formed a settled partnership with James Garner in midfield but it appears as though he may be sidelined this weekend.

Onana came on as a substitute during the score draw against Brighton and Hove Albion last Saturday but could miss out with a groin injury.

So, that leaves Everton with little options in midfield. Perhaps The Toffees boss will call upon a player from the academy.

MacKenzie Hunt has been an unused substitute on 18 occasions this season but may receive his first start on Saturday.

The 22-year-old is a product of Everton’s academy and is still awaiting his debut for the club. Hunt has played at left-back, left-midfield and as a central midfielder for the under-21s, evincing his tremendous versatility.

A start seems unlikely for the 2001-born youngster, but given the injuries, a first outing off the bench may is feasible, especially if Everton tire towards the end.