Everton vs Wolverhampton Wanderers: Preview, Predicted Lineups and Where to Watch

Everton will look to get over the disappointing loss against Brentford when they host basement side Wolverhampton Wanderers at Hill Dickinson Stadium on Wednesday.

The Blues suffered a 4-2 loss to the Bees on Sunday and have a short turnaround time before the Wolves fixture.

Igor Thiago scored a hat-trick while Nathan Collins headed home from a corner-kick to spoil the positive vibes surrounding the home side following their well-earned 2-0 win over Nottingham Forest in their final match of 2025. Although both of Everton’s misfiring strikers, Beto and Thierno Barry, got on the scoresheet in the same game, their goals amounted to little more than consolation.

Defeat against the Bees saw David Moyes’ side slip from eighth to 12th in the league standings and the Everton manager will be expecting a strong response against Wolves, who secured their first win of the season against Moyes’ former side West Ham, beating them 3-0 at the weekend.

Wolverhampton Wanderers are having one of the most disastrous Premier League campaigns in recent memory and have collected just six points after 20 matches. They’ve lost 16 games so far, including a 3-2 loss to the Toffees at the Molineux in the first round fixture.

Two players who got on the scoresheet for Everton in that game, Iliman Ndiaye and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, continue to be absent, hurting the Toffees’ creativity. Meanwhile, their defensive game, usually very solid, was also shoddy against Brentford and the players will be looking to keep things tighter at the back.

Everton vs Wolves - Team News and Predicted Lineups

Everton Team News

The Toffees don’t have any fresh injury concerns. Michael Keane returned from injury to take his spot in the starting XI in the last game after missing the clash against Nottingham Forest.

Jarrad Branthwaite, Seamus Coleman and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall are out with hamstring issues while Charly Alcaraz could also be out for this game.

Alcaraz’s injury hasn’t been disclosed but he’s missed back-to-back games against Forest and Brentford.

Harrison Armstrong returned from his loan spell at Preston North End to make an appearance off the bench against Brentford.

Everton’s predicted starting XI: Jordan Pickford (GK), Jake O’Brien, James Tarkowski, Michael Keane, Vitalii Mykolenko, James Garner, Tim Iroegbunam, Merlin Rohl, Tyler Dibling, Thierno Barry, Jack Grealish

Everton vs Wolves - Form Guide

Everton: L-L-D-W-L

Wolves: L-L-L-D-W

When is Everton vs Wolves?

Everton will host Wolves at Hill Dickinson Stadium on Wednesday, January 7. Kickoff is scheduled at 7:30 pm UK time.

Where to Watch Everton vs Wolves?

The Premier League contest between Everton and Wolves will be telecast on Sky Sports for viewers in the UK. Meanwhile, the game will also be available for live streaming on Sky Go and on the Sky Sports app.

Reader Comments (109)

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Mal van Schaick 2 Posted 05/01/2026 at 15:37:10

Hoping for the best, but fearing the worst. Wolves have nothing to lose.

I would play Armstrong and drop Dibling. Bring Coleman in and put O'Brien in the centre. Drop Keane or Tarkowski.

Daniel A Johnson 3 Posted 05/01/2026 at 15:47:07

Remember, everyone -- we have world class analytics and recruitment which are now bearing fruit.

Let's all just relax and enjoy the easy win.

Mark Mclaughlin 4 Posted 05/01/2026 at 16:19:34

I am unable to attend this game, and I am selling 2 x club view adult Wolves tickets for face value. Need to be a member to transfer.

Mark Murphy 5 Posted 05/01/2026 at 16:20:36

Is Coleman fit?

I'd bring Patterson back in and drop Keane to bring O'Brien inside. Harsh, maybe... but we can't drop the captain.

Martin Berry 6 Posted 05/01/2026 at 17:20:37

If we lose this one, again questions will be asked why didnt we keep the Forest line up ?.

Personally I would like the two upfront like in the 2nd half against Brentford, a direct approach until we get KDH and Illy back, we just need a result and save the pretty stuff for when the injured return.

Syd Mavris 7 Posted 05/01/2026 at 17:31:16

You win 3-0 away and he changes the following line-up, we lose at home... so what's next?

He will go with the Brentford line-up and dig his heels in to prove Brentford was a blip -- but risking another flop against Wolves.

John Williams 8 Posted 05/01/2026 at 19:20:44

I would be surprised if Dibling started. Coleman is injured. Do Wolves play with wingers? If not, play Patterson (if he is fit ).Not sure Rohl will start.

I would go with both Barry and Beto, keep their defence busy.Grealish, Garner, Iroegbunam and Armstrong. Mykolenko, O'Brien, Tarkowski, Patterson, Pickford.

Bench will include Dibling, Rohl, Keane, Aznou, McNeil.

Christy Ring 9 Posted 05/01/2026 at 19:31:25

Moyes has to see we need O'Brien in the centre after his decision to play Keane backfired. The lack of pace in the centre and playing so deep showed us up yesterday.

If Moyes had his eyes open and saw how Armstrong never missed one pass, and played the ball forward in his 130-inute cameo, after replacing the so poor Iroegbunam, and Rohl no better, he couldn't even kick the ball with his left foot.

I know McNeil is probably lacking match fitness, but he couldn't control the ball in the first 45 minutes. We need a full-back as soon as possible, as well; how we didn't solve it last summer is still mind-boggling.

Ian Bennett 10 Posted 05/01/2026 at 19:37:41

Wolves play 3-5-2 over the last couple of games. Before that, it was 3-4-2-1. I doubt that he will go 3-5-2, but perhaps, with the players available, he will.

I'd flood the midfield, but have some creative runners:-

Pickford

Patterson O'Brien Tarkowski Mykolenko

GarnerIroegbunam Armstrong RohlGrealish

Barry

Mark Murphy 12 Posted 05/01/2026 at 22:19:35

I was very surprised that he played Barry and Beto together yesterday but surely he should've kept either McNeil or Dibling on to give us two wingers?

I know both had poor halves but two strikers need two wide men for crosses, don't they??

Eric Myles 13 Posted 06/01/2026 at 00:45:52

We can't drop the captain

Even though he was rubbish and culpable for all Brentford's goals last game?

We also have Pickford as captain.

Derek Knox 14 Posted 06/01/2026 at 01:33:52

Merle @ 11, Brentford's Scouts?

Boy Scouts would even be better than what we have!

I am not as optimistic as normal pre-match for tomorrow as usual after Sunday's pathetic display and team selection.

There has to be a few changes, but as I, nor anyone else on here, have any say in the matter of who plays and where. We will have to reluctantly hope that Moyes has a good head wobble and sees a solution.

Mark Murphy 15 Posted 06/01/2026 at 07:18:53

Eric,

I'm not saying I wouldn't drop the captain, or even we shouldn't drop the captain; perhaps I should've said Moyes won't drop the captain.

It's very unlikely and unusual for any club to drop the team captain. It's a big statement.

It will happen one day, when (if) Branthwaite comes back and if we have a decent right-back so Jake can come inside, but Moyes isn't going to drop the captain until that scenario is real.

Personally, I'm not confident he will even then -- he likes his grocks, does Moyes.

Phillip Warrington 16 Posted 06/01/2026 at 08:49:08

It won't be as easy as people think. After their first win, Wolves will be full of confidence and energy.

We need to get at them early and the crowd need to make them very uncomfortable.

I hope everybody had a great Christmas and New Year.

Derek Knox 17 Posted 06/01/2026 at 09:34:23

Just seen a brilliantly funny one on What's App Video.

An Evertonian in the Concourse videoing everyone ' leaving ' and shouting "Call yourselves supporters, and your leaving after 0-2"

Someone shouted "It's 0-3 now."

Same guy says "Fuck that, I'm coming with yous!"

Mark Murphy 18 Posted 06/01/2026 at 10:34:38

Sorry but I've asked this before and cant find anywhere else to put this.

I am desperately seeking one ticket for the away at Brighton on 31 January and 2 (but would accept one) for the Fulham away on 7th February.

Murph 07708 615684

What happened to the tickets and travel threads?

Dave Abrahams 19 Posted 06/01/2026 at 10:36:22

Ian (10),

That's exactly what I would do, pack the midfield and mostly defend, but ready to break when the opportunity arises and it will, it's how we won at Man Utd with 10 men and also at Bournemouth and Forest. Your starting line-up looks okay as well.

Some fans think Wolves will be pushovers. They won't be even though they've lost a lot of their last few games, they have been very hard to beat and played some of the top teams.

Ian Bennett 20 Posted 06/01/2026 at 10:43:35

They'll be lively on the break, and have good technical players in the middle.

The back looks weak, so if we can get behind them quickly and onto their back 3, that gives us our best chance of scoring.

Mark Murphy 21 Posted 06/01/2026 at 10:46:28

Warning - I just went on the Echo website (yes, I know...) to see if there's any news on Branthwaite's progress.

There's a link that says all-about/everton-fc -- Don't click on it!

It goes to all-about/Liverpool-fc --says it all about the red echo doesn't it?

Ian Wilkins 22 Posted 06/01/2026 at 12:01:05

Moyes can tweak the side a little but doesn't have lots of options.

Patterson could return, but I'd say unlikely if Keane is available. Same back four.

We will surely return to one striker, Barry, after the failed two experiment.

Midfield will be Moyes's selection headache. Grealish, Garner definitely, Iroegbunam probably. Then the other 2 places between McNeil, Dibling, Rohl, Armstrong. Moyes will pick McNeil… the remaining spot… anybody's guess.

Wolves will be no pushovers. They've improved, played with greater freedom in the last 4 games. Quite an important game for us, one we really need to win.

Mark Murphy 23 Posted 06/01/2026 at 12:08:35

I think Moyes will stick with the same 11 as Saturday, and fair enough -- I'm sure he will have addressed the mistakes of Saturday in training.

But I worry that he will tinker on Saturday in the cup tie and we will bow out.

It's my preference that he picks Wednesday's team with an eye on getting his best eleven on the pitch on Saturday.

Clive Rogers 24 Posted 06/01/2026 at 12:29:09

There is no case for Rohl to start. He was dreadful in the second half on Sunday.

Armstrong needs to start and O'Brien should replace Keane at centre-back. I have no idea who could play right-back, but it should not be Garner.

Neil Cremin 26 Posted 06/01/2026 at 13:06:45

I would suggest that if you play Armstrong, then that leaves the option of playing Garner at right back with O Brien going to CB with either Keane or Tarks.

I would also have McNeil instead of Rohl and Beto instead of Barry.

But what do I know.

Tom Bowers 27 Posted 06/01/2026 at 13:56:10

Everton have always been suspect to teams on the break.

Everton lack those kind of players even though Grealish, Ndiaye and KDH have great skills.

Moyes likes the conservative stye of play but a ponderous back line prevents the ball being brought out quickly and only a few clubs can do that with assuredness and even those clubs (Arsenal and City fall afoul of it sometimes).

Wolves finally won a game and I think their last win was against an Everton eleven in the Mickey mouse cup.

Nothing is sure in this league and even though they are well clear of the bottom three a loss tomorrow would sound some warning bells.

Merle Urquart 28 Posted 06/01/2026 at 15:16:12

Having watched Wolves tear apart West Ham, l think they will be chomping at the bit to get to the HDS...anyone who thinks it will be a pushover is nuts.

I know both Barry and Beto scored but it is patently obvious to me that the pair are not up to scratch and would likely not get a game for anyone else in this division...we need bodies and quickly or the season will become another January write off

Jon Harding 29 Posted 06/01/2026 at 15:20:24

Armstrong must start!

Christy Ring 30 Posted 06/01/2026 at 15:55:03

Listening to Moyes press conference today, he discussed Armstrong and said ' Preston are desperate to get him back, and we'll see how things go when the boys come back from Afcon '? I find it unbelievable that Harrison came on for the last 20 min's, and showed how much a better player he is than Tim and Rohl, and considering Gueye is 36, it's a no brainer to keep him, and play him fro the start! He also said we probably won't bring anyone in, we're crying out for a fullback forthe last two years, and play O'Brien in his proper position, we conceded 4 goals and he praised Keane, am I missing something?

John Williams 31 Posted 06/01/2026 at 16:08:34

Yes, the owners are not going to spend any money on new players.

Hopefully, there maybe money to pay for a couple of loan players.

We can only hope, come summer we can increase our squad.

Si Cooper 32 Posted 06/01/2026 at 16:27:46

I've lost track of where Jarrad Branthwaite is in his recovery. I thought he was ‘back on the grass' weeks ago but he's just listed here as a hamstring injury. Did I miss a recent set-back being reported?

Guess it doesn't matter if it's a loan rather than permanent from the off but we have to generate sort of better right-back option this window simply to benefit the development of players who could be key to the club for the next 5 years.

Jonathan Oppenheimer 33 Posted 06/01/2026 at 16:52:23

I'd rather spend £25M to get the proper right-back in the summer than £10M now, which would get us an unproven player or a back-up from some other club. If we spend the top dollar now, hard to believe we get good value. We're in a 2-year rebuild at this point to get all positions sorted plus add depth, no need to cock it up as a panic buy.

Armstrong definitely looks the real deal, but from memory, his play on Sunday was mostly done without any pressure. I'm not saying he's not better than Rohl and Iroebugnam — I think he is — but Moyes is correct to send him back to PNE if Gana, Ndiaye and Dewsbury-Hall are all back and healthy in the next 2-3 weeks.

Harrison needs playing time, and if he's not going to get it here, he needs it there. The only caveat is if he plays the next 2-3 matches and bosses the midfield, then I think it's reasonable to think he's earned a spot with us, but that means sitting Gana, which would be a massive decision to make. Plus it means no true Number 6 on the field, which is not ideal either.

No way we should put Garner at right-back tomorrow, he's just too valuable right now in our midfield. Patterson or O'Brien is a toss-up. Damned if you do, damned if you don't. To profess otherwise is silly, as we're deciding between two bad options.

Neil Lawson 34 Posted 06/01/2026 at 17:08:10

Plenty of sensible opinion. All calling for some change. However, we know Moyes of old. A tiny tweak at best perhaps ? Change, not going to happen.

Dave Abrahams 35 Posted 06/01/2026 at 18:51:36

Jonathon (33)

Yes, a good post... but I'd rather have too many players in midfield than as it is now, and they can all get plenty of minutes playing if they are used in the right way — as subs.

Definitely Garner should not be used as a full-back at the expense of losing him in midfield and I'd rather O'Brien played centre-back rather than being an handicap at full -back.

Between Patterson and Rohl, I'd go for Patterson in the full-back position and leave Rohl on the bench for now.

Christy Ring 36 Posted 06/01/2026 at 19:17:57

Si #32,

Moyes told us 3 weeks ago Branthwaite was back on grass along with Rohl; he told us last week he's now back on grass.

He's not great at injury updates, he wouldn't tell the journalists how long Dewsbury-Hall would be out for. It's like listening to Dyche talking about grass.

Shaun Parker 37 Posted 06/01/2026 at 19:30:27

Would anyone take Callum Wilson until the end of the season?

Just wages to pay... 🤔

Jay Harris 38 Posted 06/01/2026 at 19:39:15

I have no doubt Armstrong is the future, so we need to start building the side around him now and stop using inadequate players for 90 minutes plus.

On the recruitment side ,I don't care if we get a loan. Look at how we all didn't want Asley Young and how we have fared since he left.

We desperately need a right-back who is an improvement on what we have got... which isn't a very high bar.

Ditto a goalscorer.

Tom Bowers 39 Posted 06/01/2026 at 20:49:03

Whilst Moyes has had some decent wins since returning, I am still not convinced he is any better than many of those who have been through the revolving doors in recent years.

Okay, granted he hasn't got the quality in depth needed to push the squad to the higher level, and the recent absentees plus Branthwaite have not helped his cause... but the Brentford blowout was not expected.

The recent rumor concerning Toney seems to have been just that and, whilst I was a fan of Callum Wilson, I doubt he would change our current poor attacking prowess.

On reflection, though, we know that when the whole squad is available, they can be a tough team despite the weakness of Beto and Barry.

I heard today that Liverpool spent half a million on new players this season so their fans must be even more frustrated than us Evertonians. COYB

Neil Halliwell 40 Posted 06/01/2026 at 20:52:07

Just watched yet another pre-match press conference where the manager is questioned. These all seem to follow a very similar format where the questions are all very high level where he gets asked for an update on injuries etc.

Can ToffeeWebbers tell me if these press guys are not allowed to ask searching questions, eg, "If we expect to play at a top level, David, do you agree that our full-back situation needs addressing as they offer very little in going forward."

Ian Wilkins 41 Posted 06/01/2026 at 20:55:30

Press conferences are Trumpesque…

If someone asks a wrong question they are uninvited.

They’re pretty pointless.

Mike Gaynes 42 Posted 06/01/2026 at 20:57:54

I am 100% with Jonathan. I have no interest in settling for a stopgap right back, even if he is an improvement there. No journeymen, thank you. Every player we consider from this point on should be one with the ability to change our picture significantly. And I don’t see any currently available right backs who fit that description.

As frustrated as we all may be with the current situation, it’s not an emergency. And if management chooses to slog through for four more months with Jake at right back and keep its powder dry for the vastly richer selection of players in the summer window, I’m OK with that. I can grit my teeth a little longer.

Raymond Fox 43 Posted 06/01/2026 at 21:06:26

When we are at home I get the willies whoever we play, especially when we are said to be favourite to win.

The betting is:- 4/5 Everton 4/1 Wolves and 5/2 a Draw. Approx. odds.

Wolves have just started to play better, their young left winger is a right handful, at least he was in their last game.

I'm picking us to win, but not with a lot of confidence.

It's a game we need to win so there's more pressure.

Tony Abrahams 44 Posted 06/01/2026 at 21:20:26

I am 100% against you and Jonathan, when it comes to not signing a fullback.

I don’t care if we don’t sign anyone on a permanent but, I’m fed up gritting my teeth, watching our right winger often being the most isolated player on the pitch, so I’d take a player on loan and believe it’s actually gross negligence if we don’t try and improve this position for the good of the team.

Anthony Dwyer 45 Posted 06/01/2026 at 00:00:44

The 11 is pretty much predictable, give or take a player or two the team will be selected with only 13/14 players in mind.

It's the bench I'd like to see shaken up as much as the team, Graham n Clarke out of the U21s need looking at, seem yo bag every other game, surely with this injury hit squad they must be worth a look, Clarke has 14 goals and 3 assists in 30 games, at very least he must be a wild card.

From the predicted line up I'd like to see both Rohl and Dibling left out, Rohl isn't up to speed (or if he is he's not good enough), and as much as I want Diblin to work out he seems like he doesn't understand wingers are supposed to run at defenders and beat them, he just passes back to Obrien, fouls or gives the ball away, looks like a dud to me.

Anthony Dwyer 46 Posted 07/01/2026 at 00:03:59

Looking through the last few messages talk of a right back is rife, I agree we need one but if we didn't want Kyle Walker then you have to aim at a long term player, remember we actually have scouts who should easily find a right back somewhere out there in the big world of football.

It's not for us to find one or name one, it's up to those fellas who take a wage from the club for finding solutions, if a pro scout can't come back with a right back who can run, tackle and put a decent ball into the box then they need the bullet.

Anthony Dwyer 47 Posted 07/01/2026 at 00:06:40

Shaun Parker;

Yes 100% I'd take Wilson for wages, he will bag if he can stay fit.

Only way I wouldn't is if we have someone better lined up which I doubt.

Jonathan Oppenheimer 48 Posted 07/01/2026 at 00:34:05

Tony 44, sure, if we could get a loan that somehow we can reasonably determine will be a significant step up from Patterson, I think every Evertonian would take that in a heartbeat. But the assumption that that player is easy to find seems off-base.

If a player is that good, their current club is likely not looking to offload them for 6 months for little outlay. Also, people’s assumption that our scouting department can not only identify that player, but find the players who wants to come play for us, as a loan or permanent buy, complicates things even more.

People do realize that Aznou cost us £9 million and the closest he gets to the pitch is his warm-ups are off for 5 minutes in the freezing rain pitch side. Where’s Robert Tressell to give us the run-down on possible options at striker and fullback in the January window?

Mike Gaynes 49 Posted 07/01/2026 at 01:10:03

Tony, loans are great but the player has towant to come to us.

I believe we already tried two such targets -- rumors before the New Year had us in for loans of Julián Araujo and Juanlu Sanchez. But Araujo chose Celtic, ironically to play for Nancy (oops!), and according to all reports Sanchez has no interest in the PL -- he wants Napoli or nothing.

Sean Kearns 50 Posted 07/01/2026 at 01:15:37

Keep Armstrong and start him. He showed urgency to look forward and is a local lad who knows what we want to see!!! What happened to Roman Dixon? Give the lad a run? Who plays RB for our reserves? (or whatever it’s called now)… what are these development teams even for if we don’t develop anyone. Surely Dixon has got to be at least an equal option to Jake.

Eric Myles 51 Posted 07/01/2026 at 04:53:01

Tony #44, so are you saying Patterson and O'Brien are not good enough in that position? What about Garner who has played there this season?

Eric Myles 52 Posted 07/01/2026 at 04:56:18

Tom #39, I was also a fan of Callum Wilson, he did wonders for my Fantasy team back in the day but that day has long gone due to long term injuries and age (33?).

It's a no from me.

Annika Herbert 53 Posted 07/01/2026 at 05:16:58

Sean @ 50, I agree entirely with your sentiments, including Roman Dixon. I believe he was injured for quite some time but he now appears to have disappeared off the planet.

Many criticise the young players claiming they aren’t good enough for the first team, or aren’t ready. But how do we know without giving them a go?

I really hope Armstrong starts, but I seriously doubt it

Steve Brown 54 Posted 07/01/2026 at 05:25:19

It would be gross incompetence if TFG do not sign a right back this month on a loan or permanent basis. They had the opportunity to do so in summer and failed.

Patterson has not been selected by any manager since he signed. Coleman has suffered repeated injuries over the last 3 years. O’Brien is now actively targeted by opposing managers due to his weaknesses in the position and Garner cannot be spared from midfield.

We also have wide men in Grealish, Ndiaye, Dibbling and McNeil who are all slow and look to cut inside. That creates space for an over-lapping fullback that neither O’Brien or Mykolenko have the ability to fulfill. Then we wonder why Barry and Beto cannot score?

I understand the model of incremental development of the squad, but when you have glaring weakness you address it immediately.

Eric Myles 55 Posted 07/01/2026 at 05:51:44

Steve #54, maybe with the new Wonderkid Armstrong available wecan spare Garner from midfield.

Eric Myles 56 Posted 07/01/2026 at 05:54:53

But it seems like TFG have no appetite for makings signings in this window otherwise our crack recruitment team would have had candidates lined up to sign within the first hour of the window opening, not the usual 11th hour.

Paul Griffiths 57 Posted 07/01/2026 at 06:08:05

I think that they spent more than half a million Tom - 39.

Roman Ivan Quintyne Dixon has not started since August 2024. The official site suggests that he has not played for the U21s this season. I don't know if he is injured but candidate for RB v Wolves he is not Mr. Kearns. Mick Bernard has more of a chance.

Moyes slammed the defence on Sunday but he will doubtless put the same crew out today. The rhythmic repetition of Jake RB/Keane CH is getting a tad dull and although in a small minority that drum will continue to be beaten. Sunday it was, seriously, to deal with long-throws. What will it be today?

We keep being told in more yawn that we must work with what we have. This is 'realistic'.

Fine, then make the best use of what we have and put Jake and I believe the epithet of choice is 'Tarks' in the middle and put Patto I think it is, or it might be Patts, at right-back. Garner must not be used as emergency cover. He has to be in the middle of the field.

Sacrificing players in their best positions for emergency right-back cover is not making best use of what we have at our disposal.

Paul Griffiths 58 Posted 07/01/2026 at 06:09:39

Absolutely spot on Steve - 54 - and Tony - 44 - but what do we English know?

Ajay Gopal 59 Posted 07/01/2026 at 07:02:04

If I were Moyes

Pickford

Patterson O'Brien Tarkowski Mykolenko

Garner Armstrong

Dibling Grealish McNeil

Barry

If Patterson is struggling, bring Garner in at RB, and play Tim alongside Armstrong.

SUBS: 2 GKs, Rohl, Beto, Iroegbunam, Aznou,

Darren Hind 60 Posted 07/01/2026 at 07:09:14

We did sign a right back in summer Or should that be re-signed.

Seamus Coleman had his lucrative contract extended. to very long and very loud cheers

Annika Herbert 61 Posted 07/01/2026 at 07:22:00

Ajay @ 59, why 2 goalkeepers? We are never going to require 2 extra keepers. Wouldn't it make more sense to give some of the younger lads a bit of first team experience, even if it is only sitting on the bench?

I will never understand the thinking behind naming 2 goalkeepers on the bench. As we are so low on numbers, give the young lads a taste of first team match days

Derek Knox 62 Posted 07/01/2026 at 07:43:27

Yes, it looks like Dixon has been Docked, and he was a bit Green. My conclusion is that he is the new Dixon of Dock Green !

I'll get my coat, younger viewers will not get the co-relation.

Andrew Clare 63 Posted 07/01/2026 at 07:59:08

I agree with many of the above comments.

Two fast fullbacks would transform the team. They must be the club’s priority this window.

Mark Murphy 64 Posted 07/01/2026 at 08:20:03

Dixon played in that test game at BMD in the summer. The u21s game that finished with a fire drill. As it was the only game I have still to have won in the new ballot style I was there and I was not impressed at all. He looked miles off, even against fellow youngsters.

I’m hearing though he’s been injured since august so maybe that was a factor in his performance that day.

Patterson may not be the long term answer to our right back needs but he IS a right back and O’Brien patently is not. Move Jake inside and play Patterson at right back until we have better. Patterson may well improve with minutes and confidence. I thought he began to look settled in the Forest game and was disappointed he was dropped for Brentford.

Andrew Merrick 65 Posted 07/01/2026 at 08:35:49

Andrew, 63, I am one of the many that has banged the same drum for a long time now.

Instead we have seen a lot of money spent without improving this glaring issue.

If it wasnt for signing KDH and the Grealish loan we would be in a relegation scrap again.

We have to focus on dedicated fullbacks / wingbacks, with energy and speed.

A young Roberto Carlos and Kyle Walker would do!

John Collins 66 Posted 07/01/2026 at 08:38:44

Andrew 63.

Moyes does not give his full backs licence to get into the final third repeatedly.

Prefers to " keep the shape".

Hence Grealish having the extra touches waiting for the overlap.

O'Brien doesnt get forward anywhere near as much as a modern day full back should.

Anthony Dove 67 Posted 07/01/2026 at 08:59:08

Whatever team Moyes picks let’s hope it’s with one eye on Saturday’s

cup tie. We are in a position to prioritise the Cup this year so let’s

keep some fresh legs for Saturday.

John Collins 68 Posted 07/01/2026 at 09:04:32

Andrew 65.

Just thinking on any players with real,genuine pace that Moyes signed for Everton in his first go at our manager?

Tony Abrahams 69 Posted 07/01/2026 at 09:44:21

So you would prefer to move the player who has improved massively away from midfield, rather than sign a right back Eric?

Moyes doesn’t rate Patterson, and my own opinion is that I can’t stomach watching O’Brien, playing as a right fullback for much longer. (It seriously puts me off going tonight, such is the lack of cohesion and imbalance, it brings to the team) even though I’ve no real problems with him defensively.

You wouldn’t sign anyone player who didn’t want to play for us Mike, but a professional outfit should definitely be able to go and sign a player to play right back, even if it’s on a short term deal.

Win tonight and we will only be three/four points off a champions league place, so common sense would surely suggest there’s no time like the present, for trying to make the team as strong as possible?

Michael Kenrick 70 Posted 07/01/2026 at 09:50:31

Neil @40,

Sorry, I'm running behind the crowd here but you asked: Can ToffeeWebbers tell me if these press guys are not allowed to ask searching questions?

They have become a complete waste of time, in my humble opinion, Neil. I can't be bothered with them any more.

I think what might be happening is that what we plebs get to see is the 'open' session. This is then followed by the 'closed' session, where I imagine the journo hacks might indeed ask more probing questions so they can then file their 'exclusive' insights into what might or might not be happening.

Maybe this is where the additional Moyes pre-match quotes come from... but he's a cannae wee Scottish Presbyterian and is not inclined to give much away at the best of times.

Don Wright 71 Posted 07/01/2026 at 09:51:38

Annika (61) last week at the AFCON Uganda used three yes 3 goal keepers the first was replaced because he was injured the second was sent off strait red hence third goalkeeper it happens and its not the third first time.

Bill Fairfield 72 Posted 07/01/2026 at 09:57:11

We,ll no doubt be in a better place once we get our players back from the Afcon and injury. It’s looking like the owners are satisfied with the improvement so far, and that there’ll be no significant investment in players till the summer. It’s disappointing that a right back hasn’t been brought in at least.

Fred Charters 73 Posted 07/01/2026 at 10:05:37

Anthony @45.Your description of how Dibling played is exactly how Grealish plays!

Brian Harrison 74 Posted 07/01/2026 at 10:25:24

Michael Kenrick

I saw a video on X the other day under the heading ToffeeWeb and it showed thousands leaving the stadium on 56 minutes after Brentford scored their third goal. Was this ToffeeWeb or somebody using the name, either way what a sad indictment of some of our supporters, sorry they arent supporters they are spectators. Supporters stay till the end and support the team, the difference between the mentality of the away supporters and the home supporters is markedly different.

OUR team is depleted at the moment and needs all our support to help not booing at half time because we are a goal down, and leaving with a considerable time left in the game.

Merle Urquart 75 Posted 07/01/2026 at 10:59:20

@ Sean

Yes Callum Wilson in a heartbeat...proven Premier League striker who can finish...a little bit of attitude too aka aggression! Not at his peak but better than whats here

James Fletcher 76 Posted 07/01/2026 at 11:19:49

I'd certainly be open to getting Wilson in until the end of the season, especially if we're possibly going to be playing 2 strikers (It seemed to work pretty well)

Andrew Merrick 77 Posted 07/01/2026 at 11:29:18

John 68, we did have the Baines Pienaar left side but he pretty much stuck with Tony (riot if he scores) Hibbert on the right.

Although right now a Tony Hibbert would be useful!

Mick O\'Malley 78 Posted 07/01/2026 at 11:33:03

I'd swerve Calum Wilson, terrible injury record, if he cant get in a very poor West Ham side then what use us he to us? I'm more concerned about the goals we are conceding, I know we could do with scoring a few more but we have been very sloppy defensively in quite a few games and have had a couple of hidings at home, when we are at home and expect to go on the front foot the lack of pace and the piss poor passing from the defence leaves us very vulnerable

Annika Herbert 79 Posted 07/01/2026 at 11:51:16

Don @ 71, but it’s hardly a common occurrence is it? How many times have we had to bring on a substitute goslkeeper this season?

I take your point but I still see no point in having 2 keepers on the bench. Put it this way, with a fully fit squad, would Moyes still have 2 keepers on the bench?

Raymond Fox 80 Posted 07/01/2026 at 12:49:32

We should have signed him when he left Bouremouth, we had Dom then though, but we did sign his partner at Bouremouth who turned to be a flop with us. I wouldn't be against him but it wont happen unless Beto is sold.

But then again I wouldn't let Beto go either.

About having 3 goalies in the team, I agree we woudn't need to use 3 very often but we would look a bit silly if we did lose 2 and we hadn't got another.

Steve Brown 81 Posted 07/01/2026 at 12:54:23

Eric @ Harrison Armstrong already has his slot assured. Third from the left on the bench for a month.

Raymond Fox 82 Posted 07/01/2026 at 12:54:54

Its Callum Wilson I'm talking about in post 80.

When are we going to get a bleeding Edit Button?

Mark Murphy 83 Posted 07/01/2026 at 13:10:43

Given the paucity of our squad does it really matter if we have two keepers on the bench? Its not like they are keeping anyone, who would likely get a game, out?

Assuming this 11

Pickford, O'brien, Tarkowski, Keane, Mykolenko, Garner, Ibroebgbunam, Armstrong, McNeil, Barry and Grealish. (not my choice but it will be Moyes').

Looking at our current squad for tonight's game I assume the subs will be

Patterson

Rohl

Beto

Dibling

Aznou

Travers GK

King GK

and then some kids.

Moyes isn't going to use anyone outside those first 5 as replacements (and even then probably wont use Aznou) so at least the 3rd keeper gets some match day experience?

My point is, it doesn't matter, does it?

Anthony Dwyer 84 Posted 07/01/2026 at 13:28:03

Fred 73

I agree with what your saying but Grealish is anyone level, he's already had 6 assists for us, he's created so many more chances than anyone else in the side, even on a bad day he creates our best two or three chances including 2 assists last game. Also he wins us fouls, not gives them away like Diblin.

I get what your saying, Diblin looks like he wants to be a Grealish style player but he's miles off, I've onmy seen him create 1 chance and that took a deflection to make it look dangerous. Last game he had 6 touches of the ball in 49 minutes.

Anthony Dwyer 85 Posted 07/01/2026 at 13:29:01

Also those who are saying Armstrong will be sub all month I disagree, he will start tonight imo.

Christy Ring 86 Posted 07/01/2026 at 13:31:48

I'd play Harrison beside Garner tonight, Moyes had to see how poor Tim and Rohl were on Sunday, and how impressive Armstrong was, and he did mention in his press conference how match fit he is, after playing 17 games for Preston, a lot more games than the other two?

Paul Hewitt 87 Posted 07/01/2026 at 14:06:31

Tim, Jimmy and Armstrong in a flat three in midfield. Take turns to get forward.

Craig Walker 88 Posted 07/01/2026 at 14:56:56

I'd take Callum Wilson because he has proven that he can get goals in t his league and he is better than what we have. However, I thought Josh King would be an astute signing and look how that ended up.

I think Armstrong has to start tonight as he was the one bright spot on Sunday.

Not sure I should be commenting on Everton, anymore. Some so-called Blue on Twitter doesn't think I'm a big enough Everton fan because Sunday's game was the first time I've been able to get to a game at the Hill Dickinson and I'm not from the city - "I'm a wool". I love this club to bits, spend an inordinate amount of time thinking about this club and kick every ball and have done for 51 years. My dad was a Blue, both my brothers are, my son is a Blue as our my nieces. I first went to Goodison aged 10. We've got a stone at on Everton Way with all our names on. I was in my seat an hour before kick-off and didn't leave until after the final whistle. I also didn't spend the game going for a beer or a piss every 5 mins but I'm not an Everton fan because I don't have a scouse accent - I'm from Wigan. It's the second or third time I've been told my fellow Evertonians that I'm not one of them.

Pisses me off.

Mark Murphy 89 Posted 07/01/2026 at 15:30:53

Craig, I share your pain mate.

Or at least I did until I saw "Wigan" hahaha Your even more wool than I am!

Don't let the bastards grind you down.

Eric Myles 90 Posted 07/01/2026 at 15:31:42

Tony #69, no I would prefer we sign a right back, but as that looks unlikely to happen today (or in this window as it should have already been soeted) and we have someone that can take Garner's place in midfield (?) and Garner can help out Dibling (?) and Garner has successfully played in that role this season.

Doesn't that give us a better option than your dreaded O'Brien at right back?

Mike Gaynes 91 Posted 07/01/2026 at 15:32:20

Craig, just blow it off. You know in your heart you're an Evertonian, and it doesn't matter a damn what anybody else thinks.

Les Callan 92 Posted 07/01/2026 at 15:37:10

Craig. I live in Wigan. 70 years watching the blues. Keep the faith.

Eric Myles 93 Posted 07/01/2026 at 15:37:16

Annika #79, with all his vast squad resources Pep puts two keeper on the bench at City.

Eric Myles 94 Posted 07/01/2026 at 15:39:59

Mark #83, no it doesn't matter.

Unless you want another stick to beat Moyes with.

Ged Simpson 95 Posted 07/01/2026 at 15:40:27

Craig 88: I reckon because we are (I may regret this) safe this season, Moyes should try folk out a lot. (not 3 goalies!).

I hope we can finish high but would dread a place in a Euro competition. We are not there yet at all.

As for your other comments.

Of course you should post and more and if someone thinks you are not a "True Blue", I would suggest that is a description of them not you.

I am originally from Wirral, attended every home game with my Dad when lived at home but got "wooly-back" stuff. Then it was funny.

Now the inward looking so claimed "true scousers" are the very one's that our national and, even more, international reputation is now of a of a bunch who still miss Derek Hatton, want "Boys From the Black Stuff" as a modern documentary and dream of when the docks were the proper docks and Goodison did not have that huge main stand..

Let's make our club great Craig.

Aged 65.

PS Never go to a game now. One money and secondly, won't pay overpaid lads.

Mark Stone 96 Posted 07/01/2026 at 16:22:08

For me, it should be the XI that faced Forest with the exception of Grealish starting in place of Rohl.

Pickford

Mykolenko

O'Brien

Tarkowski

Patterson

Iroegbunam

Garner

Grealish

McNeil

Dibling

Barry

My preference would be Garner at right back instead of Patterson with Armstrong stepping into the midfield, but I'm half convinced Garner has spoken with Moyes about wanting to play centre mid and with new contract negotiations going on to he's being kept sweet. This is entirely in my own head though

Liam Mogan 97 Posted 07/01/2026 at 16:25:00

Play Armstrong. The midfield looked knackered on Sunday. Playing the same players every 2/3 days is having a huge impact.

Rokas Grajauskas 98 Posted 07/01/2026 at 16:28:16

I flew from Lithuania to get to the game tonight. And you should hear my accent. I must be the fakest blue ever!

Eric Myles 99 Posted 07/01/2026 at 16:34:30

Mark #96, exactly my thoughts at #90 & #55 if nobody wants O'Brien or Patterson at right back.

Eric Myles 100 Posted 07/01/2026 at 16:37:42

Rotas, just remember to keep shouting 'howay the lads' and you'll fit in perfectly 😁

I'm sure you'll enjoy the city and the great people and hope you have a great time...and result.

Andrew Clare 101 Posted 07/01/2026 at 16:38:46

Enjoy the game Rokas. You are a true blue travelling that distance to support the blues.

Edward Rogers 102 Posted 07/01/2026 at 17:16:12

Craig,

You support Everton, right? That makes you as good a Blue as everyone or anyone else " Once a Blue". etc.

Enjoy the game

Dave Abrahams 103 Posted 07/01/2026 at 17:27:40

Edward (102) Amen to that, you can be an alien and still be a Blue— in fact I think I have sat near one or two of them in my time watching the Blues and one or two other fans might have thought I was one as well but we all supported the same team.

Darren Hind 104 Posted 07/01/2026 at 17:37:37

Those saying we defended deep because keane was brought back for the Brentford game couldnt have watched the Forest game. Tarkowski and O'Brien spent nearly the entire night on the edge of our six yard box.

No point in O'Brien pushing up if his partner wont go with him And we Know he wont go with him.

We know its not going to be SOS football tonight. So why not get behind the selected team instead of bitching about it before a ball is even kicked.

Once the match is over, you can praise/moan all you like, but at least you'll know what you are praising or moaning about.

Jay Harris 105 Posted 07/01/2026 at 17:46:16

Darren,

My problem with Keane is not his pace but his speed of thinking and lapses in concentration.

Other than a few games this season, he has been gash.

Liam Mogan 106 Posted 07/01/2026 at 17:59:43

Good lad Rokas -- hope the Blues get the win tonight just for you mate.

I gave my ticket away tonight cos I couldn't be arsed travelling over midweek from Yorkshire.

Your commitment is to be applauded.

Mike Powell 107 Posted 07/01/2026 at 18:03:02

You can't put Rohl and Tim in the middle, both are awful.

He's got to start Armstrong in place of Iroegbunam, his passing is abysmal. COYBs

Rokas Grajauskas 108 Posted 07/01/2026 at 18:07:06

Thanks for the wishes! Not including the horse puncher catchprases. :))

Hard to believe, but it's my seventh game already. Since 2015 I've seen Everton play West Ham, Man Utd, Southampton, Norwich, Brentford and Liverpool... Wolves getting added to the list tonight.

The new pubs around HD look astonishing. Weird to be visiting these after spending so many evenings at the Winslow -- Guess that's why they call it the Blues after Brentford, anyone?

It feels like a new fancy bed that you have to get used to sleeping in. We haven't shaped it out yet, it takes time, but it does feel splendid. Or boss, as you'd say!

Ged Simpson 109 Posted 07/01/2026 at 21:50:36

Manager shite. Team a reflection. Ground a curse.

Strangely doesn't seem to matter as much after my six and a half decades... even when we win

Fucking hate over reaction!

Ian Bennett 111 Posted 08/01/2026 at 17:08:49

Need a Saturday swap shop.

Willing to trade McNeil and Patterson for a set of golf clubs, or two weeks away somewhere warm.

Nuno will be doing the same with Ward-Prowse.

Half expecting to see Ward-Prowse on loan at our place, to be honest.

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