Everton face a pivotal match today as they travel to Leicester City in search of their first Premier League points this season.
Manager Sean Dyche is under increasing pressure after a poor start, having lost all four of their league games and recently being knocked out of the Carabao Cup by Southampton. The trip to Leicester feels critical, as the Foxes themselves are struggling with just two points from their return to the Premier League. Everton will see this as a winnable match, but they are dealing with a severely depleted squad.
Dyche had only 12 senior outfield players available for the Southampton game, and injuries and illness continue to take their toll. Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Vitalii Mykolenko, who missed the last match due to sickness, are expected to return. However, doubts remain over James Garner and Jack Harrison, with the latter recently falling ill.
James Tarkowski has returned to training after a back issue, but Michael Keane is doubtful after undergoing a scan for a leg problem.
Confirmed absentees include Jarrad Branthwaite (groin), Nathan Patterson (hamstring), Seamus Coleman (calf), Youssef Chermiti, Armando Broja (both ankle), Stanley Mills (knee), and Idrissa Gana Gueye, who is unavailable due to a family bereavement.
