David Moyes will have close to a full squad available for Everton’s first pre-season friendly against Dundee FC on Saturday, July 18. The match kicks off a run of six friendlies before the Premier League opener against Crystal Palace at Hill Dickinson Stadium on Saturday, August 22.
New Signings and Returning Players
New signing Hayden Hackney and Tyrique George, who is set to return to Everton after the club agreed an initial £18m deal with Chelsea, are expected to be involved. Jarrad Branthwaite may also feature as he builds towards the season after a year blighted by injury. His campaign ended with him being stretchered off against Liverpool in April, but his recovery has gone well, and he should be able to play in pre-season, though his minutes may be managed.
Absences Due to World Cup and Rest
Jordan Pickford will miss the opening friendlies regardless of England's World Cup progress (they were about to face Mexico in the last 16). He will be granted a break after the tournament. Iliman Ndiaye and Idrissa Gueye, if he re-signs, are also likely to be absent due to the Fifpro recommendation of three-to-four week rest periods for World Cup players. Nathan Patterson, whose Scotland side was eliminated after the group stages, could also miss the Dundee game as it comes at the end of a training camp in Scotland where academy players are expected to boost numbers.
Squad Strength and Midfield Options
The strong squad is a boost for Moyes, who started pre-season last year with a threadbare group during the Friedkin Group transition. With George’s arrival, he and Tyler Dibling could operate on the wings. Midfield options include James Garner, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, Hackney, Tim Iroegbunam, Merlin Rohl, and Harrison Armstrong.
Defensive Considerations
Jake O’Brien may resume duty at right back if Patterson is not involved. Bringing in a specialist right-back remains a summer priority for Everton, according to the club.
