David Moyes Issues Nathan Patterson Update as Fresh Injury Concerns Arise
Everton manager David Moyes has delivered the latest update on his squad’s fitness and availability ahead of Monday night’s Premier League clash against Sunderland at the Stadium of Light. The Toffees will be desperate to halt their recent dip in form as they aim to avoid a third straight league defeat.
After suffering consecutive losses to Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur, Moyes’ side now find themselves in need of a response. Despite the recent setbacks, Everton head into the fixture as favourites, though Sunderland’s impressive start to life back in the Premier League means this will be far from a straightforward contest.
Referee Appointment Confirmed
The Premier League has confirmed that Thomas Bramall will take charge of the encounter in the North East, while Michael Salisbury will oversee proceedings from the VAR room.
Branthwaite and Patterson Sidelined
In his pre-match press conference, Moyes offered a detailed update on the injury situation within his squad. Defender Jarrad Branthwaite recently underwent surgery following a hamstring setback. The young centre-back has yet to feature this season and, although initial expectations suggested a return by late autumn, he now faces several more weeks on the sidelines as he continues his recovery.
Moyes also addressed the situation surrounding Nathan Patterson, who missed the clash with Tottenham and has yet to make an appearance in the current campaign. The Scottish full-back, who has been seen on the bench in recent weeks, has undergone what Moyes described as a “small procedure” on his groin. The Everton boss confirmed that Patterson will not be available for selection on Monday night.
Additional Injury Concerns
While Patterson and Branthwaite are confirmed absentees, Moyes hinted that a few other players are carrying minor issues that could affect his final squad selection. The manager remained cautious when pressed for details, saying:
“A couple of knocks and bruises, and a couple of people with little bits, but hopefully we’ll be okay,”
This suggests that late fitness tests may determine the availability of several squad members, leaving Moyes with some uncertainty heading into a key fixture.
Sunderland Hostile to Moyes’ Return
Monday’s match will also mark Moyes’ return to the Stadium of Light — a venue that holds mixed memories for the Scottish manager. He spent the 2016–17 season in charge of Sunderland, a campaign that ended in relegation and ultimately in his departure from the club.
Following his exit, Moyes reflected candidly on his time there, admitting:
“I didn’t do enough due diligence. I came back and made a poor choice in the club I chose.”
Those comments have lingered in the minds of Sunderland supporters, many of whom have never forgiven the former Manchester United boss for both the team’s relegation and his subsequent remarks. As a result, Moyes is unlikely to receive a warm welcome when he steps out of the tunnel on Monday evening.
Atmosphere and Motivation
New Sunderland manager Regis Le Bris is expected to use the charged atmosphere to his advantage. The home crowd, eager to see their team claim a notable scalp, will undoubtedly create a hostile environment for Moyes and his Everton players. For the Toffees, the match represents not only a chance to reclaim momentum in the league but also to overcome the emotional weight of returning to a ground associated with one of Moyes’ lowest managerial moments.
The Bigger Picture
Everton’s recent inconsistency has put pressure on Moyes to steady the ship, particularly as the season edges toward its demanding winter stretch. The match against Sunderland, who have impressed with their energy and fearlessness since returning to the top flight, offers a crucial opportunity for the Merseyside club to reassert their ambitions.
If Moyes’ men can secure a victory, it would not only restore confidence but also send a message that Everton are capable of grinding out results even in the face of injuries and adversity.