Branthwaite and Rohl to miss Everton vs West Ham clash | OneFootball

Everton will be without Jarrad Branthwaite and Merlin Rohl when they host West Ham United at Hill Dickinson Stadium on Monday night.

Everton boss David Moyes confirmed in his pre-match press conference on Friday that they will not be fit to feature as the Toffees aim to extend their unbeaten run at their new home.

“Fine,” Moyes replied when asked for an update on Branthwaite’s rehabilitation (via Evertonfc.com).

“He’ll not be available for Monday, neither is Merlin. Both of them are out.”

Pressed further on whether Branthwaite had returned to full training, the Everton boss added: “Not at the moment. We’re expecting him back shortly, but not yet.”

Branthwaite has yet to make a competitive appearance this season after suffering a setback during pre-season.

The 23-year-old defender had been tipped to form a key part of Moyes’ backline but continues to work towards full fitness.

Everton have kept two clean sheets in the league this season and look defensively solid in his absence. Still, they will hope to have him back soon.

Meanwhile, Rohl has already shown flashes of his ability in an Everton shirt, making an eye-catching cameo in the win over Aston Villa.

However, Rohl, whom Moyes praised as an ‘exciting prospect’, has not featured for the Toffees since.

Signed on loan from Freiburg with an obligation to buy, the attacking midfielder quickly impressed supporters with his energy and directness in midfield.

However, the German has now been sidelined for Everton’s last two games with a hip problem and is still some way from a return.

His absence will be felt as Moyes looks to keep momentum building in the early stages of the campaign.

Everton’s new home has so far been a fortress, with the Toffees eager to preserve their unbeaten start in front of their supporters.

Moyes will also be desperate to beat Graham Potter for the first time after eight attempts (D6, L2).