Everton return to Premier League action on Saturday with a crucial trip to Brentford. The Blues have not played since their superb 3-0 home win over Chelsea three weeks ago, but the extended break has allowed key players to recover.
David Moyes held his pre-match press conference on Friday and delivered positive news on the injury front
The Toffees go into the game knowing that a win would move them above Brentford in the table. The two sides are currently level on 46 points, with the Bees ahead only on goal difference. Victory would also lift Everton level on points with neighbours Liverpool, who occupy the fifth and final Champions League spot.
Everton team news: Ndiaye fit and available after international scare
Iliman Ndiaye withdrew from international duty with Senegal due to a foot injury, raising concerns among Everton supporters. But Moyes has confirmed the forward is fit and ready to face Brentford.
Speaking in his pre-match press conference, the Everton manager said: “They’re all fine, the players are fine. We’ve got just about a fully-fit squad.”
Ndiaye has been one of Everton’s standout performers this season, and his availability is a major boost for the trip to the Gtech Community Stadium.
Alcaraz closing in on return, Grealish still out
Charly Alcaraz has been sidelined since late January, but he has now stepped up his rehabilitation. While he will not feature against Brentford, his return is on the horizon.
“Charly Alcaraz is back in early training, so he’s not available for the game, but he’s getting fitter again,” Moyes confirmed.
Jack Grealish remains absent after suffering a stress fracture in his foot earlier this year. When asked about the on‑loan Manchester City star’s long‑term future, Moyes declined to comment on that specifically but noted that Grealish has been “great company” and played a big part in where Everton are sitting right now.
Tyrique George is also in contention for a place in the matchday squad after missing the Chelsea win due to loan rules that prevented him from facing his parent club.
With a fully fit squad aside from Grealish and Alcaraz, Everton head to Brentford with high confidence. The Blues have won three of their last four Premier League outings and will be aiming to continue their push for European qualification. A win on Saturday would put them firmly in the driving seat.
- Everton team news: Iliman Ndiaye fit for Brentford clash, Alcaraz returns to training
- Why Jack Grealish and Everton are made for each other
- David Moyes press conference: Loving the race for Europe
- Brentford vs Everton: Team news, predictions, key players
- Everton season tickets – Club needs to read the room!
