Nørgaard was ‘getting very close’ – Moyes update now tells a different story

Christian Nørgaard‘s wait for his Everton debut is set to continue after David Moyes gave a downbeat update on the midfielder’s recovery.

The summer signing has yet to feature competitively after being troubled by injury, with Everton still waiting to see when he will be ready for selection.

That in itself is frustrating. More interesting is the change in tone over the past week.

Nørgaard recently described the problem as a “small injury” and said he was “getting very close” to being available.

Moyes’ latest assessment was rather less optimistic.

Everton still waiting for Nørgaard…

Speaking ahead of Saturday’s trip to Bournemouth, Moyes said: “Still not making great progress at the moment.

“It’s not something where we’re going to get him back quickly, so we need to see how that develops.”

There has been no indication of a fresh setback. It may simply be that Nørgaard’s recovery is taking longer than first hoped.

Either way, a return does not now sound imminent.

That leaves Moyes short of options in an area where Everton have already had their share of problems.

Tim Iroegbunam is sidelined, while Hayden Hackney is touch and go for Bournemouth after rolling his ankle last week. James Garner has returned to action, but Moyes says he remains short of full match fitness.

It makes Nørgaard’s continued absence all the more noticeable.

The 32-year-old was brought in to add experience and another option to Everton’s midfield. As August draws to a close, supporters are still waiting to see him in competitive action.

A week ago, that wait appeared to be nearing its end.

Judging by Moyes’ latest update, it could go on for a little while yet.

For updates on the Toffees throughout the season, take a look at our LIVE! Premier League 2026/27 News, Transfers, Updates & Viral Moments page.

Share

Gary is an experienced football journalist who has written for, among many others, BBC Sport and The Metro, and is now the editor of ReadEverton.com. He leads daily coverage of Everton news, transfers and analysis as part of the dave.sport network. He also writes for ReadManCity.com, ReadMotorsport and ReadNorwich within the same network. When not writing, he enjoys a nice cold pint of Guinness and trips to the cinema ... not always at the same time.

View all articles →

From our partners

Recommended across our network

related.