David Moyes says he has ready made replacements to come in for the players who are set to go on African Cup of Nations duty.
The impressive attacking trio of Jack Grealish, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall and Iliman Ndiaye will be split following this weekend’s game against Chelsea with Ndiaye and Idrissa Gueye set to join their national teams in Morocco.
The tournament begins on December 21 and runs until January 18 which will leave Everton without Senegal duo Ndiaye and Gueye. Moyes said: “We have to respect completely the African Nations Cup when the players have to go and play in the tournament for their countries.
“It’s a great thing that they get selected for the countries, we hope they do well, obviously… we’ve got them for this game and then they’ll go off to Africa.”
The absence of the pair will allow the likes of Tyler Dibling and Carlos Alcaraz to stake their claim for a place in the starting 11. Moyes said: “There’s quite a few in there who are all keen to get selected and put in the side, so they’ll all be used.
“I’ve got no doubt about that in the coming weeks and months.”
Dewsbury-Hall (below) is the joint top scorer alongside Ndiaye with the pair both on four goals. The former Chelsea man will return to Stamford Bridge for the first time since his summer move and is on a good run of form.
Moyes believes the midfielder’s impact has been influential and has helped Everton rise to the European places, the Everton manager said: “He has been excellent. That’s the first thing I would say.
“And he’s brought some goals and assists as well. He’s just brought us a little bit more calmness at different times.
“He’s looked a really comfortable footballer… the supporters have taken to him greatly.”
Moyes revealed positive news on the injured Jarrad Branthwaite and Merlin Rohl, stating the pair are “back on the grass” and are showing signs of returning to the side soon.
Ahead of Saturday’s trip to Chelsea Moyes said the “World Champions” have an abundance of talent in attack.
“I think that the biggest issue for us is dealing with Chelsea’s attacking intent.
“They’ve got four wingers who can play, and you never know which ones are going to play.
“And probably one of England’s top players in Cole Palmer, if he’s available.”
Saturday’s fixture could see Everton gain a third consecutive win with the prospect of moving into the Champions League places, depending on other results.
