Everton in talks over behind-closed-doors friendly during international break

Everton are in talks with Blackburn Rovers over a behind-closed-doors friendly during the international break, according to The Bobble.

The proposed game would allow David Moyes to keep members of his squad ticking over during a lengthy gap in the domestic schedule.

Everton beat Ipswich Town 1-0 at the Hill Dickinson on Saturday and do not return to Premier League action until their trip to Hull City on Sunday, 11 October.

A sizeable group of Everton players are away representing their countries, including Jordan Pickford, Jarrad Branthwaite, Brennan Johnson and Vitalii Mykolenko. Those remaining at Finch Farm would otherwise face three weeks without competitive football.

Everton and Blackburn discuss friendly

The Bobble reports that talks are taking place between Everton and Championship side Blackburn over arranging a game behind closed doors.

No date or venue has yet been reported, and there is no suggestion at this stage that an agreement has been finalised.

If it goes ahead, the fixture would allow Moyes to give minutes to players who have had limited involvement in the opening weeks of the season, while also keeping some of his regulars match-ready during the break.

It could also be useful for players returning from injury, although any involvement for Merlin Rohl or Christian Norgaard would depend entirely on their fitness at the time.

Moyes’ side have started the Premier League season unbeaten, taking nine points from their opening five matches. The proposed Blackburn game would offer a useful exercise before preparations begin in earnest for the visit to Hull.

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