David Moyes has refused to confirm Jarrad Branthwaite’s availability for Everton’s trip to Arsenal and admits Christian Norgaard remains further away from full fitness than hoped.
Everton travel to the Emirates Stadium on Saturday looking to respond to last weekend’s 2-0 defeat by Chelsea, but Moyes was reluctant to reveal the condition of his squad during Friday afternoon’s pre-match press conference.
Asked for an injury update, the Everton manager said: “We’ve got our share of bits and pieces, and we’ll keep them quiet.” When specifically asked about Branthwaite, he added that he would not be answering questions on team news.
Moyes gives Norgaard fitness update
Moyes was more forthcoming about Norgaard, who made his Everton debut as a late substitute against Chelsea after recovering from a groin problem. The manager revealed he had considered starting the summer signing last weekend but was ultimately pleased he had decided against it. Norgaard’s brief appearance suggested to Moyes that the midfielder still has some way to go before reaching full fitness.
Moyes said Everton had not expected the 32-year-old to be “fully firing” until after the next international break, having had little pre-season and only a limited amount of training since his arrival.
Norgaard’s condition could strengthen the case for Hayden Hackney to receive more opportunities. Moyes also discussed Hackney, Tyler Dibling and Tyrique George on Friday, pointing to his record of allowing younger players time to develop before becoming established first-team regulars.
Everton’s midfield is one of several areas Moyes must consider before facing Arsenal, with Hackney remaining an unused substitute against Chelsea. We looked at that question and two others in our analysis of three Everton selection decisions Moyes must make against Arsenal.
Moyes also acknowledged the difficulty of resting Thierno Barry while Everton have only one recognised senior striker and revealed that moving Jack Grealish into a more central role is under serious consideration.
Branthwaite’s position, meanwhile, remains unclear. Moyes did not say the defender would miss Saturday’s game, leaving his availability among the questions that may only be answered when Everton’s team is announced.
For kick-off time, television information and the latest team news, see our complete Arsenal v Everton match guide.
For all the latest Everton team news and developments, visit our Everton news page.
SEO title: Moyes coy on Branthwaite as Everton boss gives Norgaard update
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