Everton travel to Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Saturday seeking to extend their unbeaten start to the Premier League season, while Spurs remain without a league victory and have yet to score in their opening three matches.
David Moyes’ side have collected five points from three games and were encouraged by last weekend’s 1-1 draw with Manchester United, when Ainsley Maitland-Niles scored a late equaliser. Tottenham, meanwhile, have taken two points from their opening fixtures and are under pressure to produce a response in front of their home supporters.
Jack Grealish is ready to start for Everton after making his second debut as a substitute against United. Moyes said the winger has trained well and may benefit more from match time than additional sessions as he continues to build toward peak fitness.
Christian Nørgaard remains unavailable and is not expected back before the international break. James Garner is also a doubt after leaving the Manchester United match with cramp, which could lead to Hayden Hackney partnering Harrison Armstrong in midfield.
Everton are otherwise in relatively good condition, with Jarrad Branthwaite expected to continue in central defence and Jordan Pickford in goal. Ainsley Maitland-Niles is pushing to retain his place after his late goal, while Tyrique George and Beto are competing for attacking roles.
Moyes has rejected the idea of using major away fixtures simply to experiment with inexperienced players. “We’re going to go there and try to win it,” he said. “I don’t see it any other way. I’m not turning up with a team of kids to see what they can do.”
Tottenham’s injury list includes Dejan Kulusevski, Wilson Odobert and Xavi Simons, while Mykhailo Mudryk faces six to eight weeks out after suffering an ankle injury on his return from a lengthy absence. James Maddison has returned to training but may not be ready to start.
The match kicks off at 17:30 BST on Saturday. Tottenham need an attacking breakthrough, but Everton’s organisation and stronger early-season results make a close contest likely.
