Everton Team News For Brighton Clash

Adam Aznou has resumed training ahead of Everton's historic clash with Brighton & Hove Albion at Hill Dickinson Stadium.

The Blues host the Seagulls in the first-ever competitive fixture at the Club's new 52,769-seater waterfront home on Sunday (2pm BST kick-off).

Summer signing Aznou – a 19-year-old Morocco international – faces a late fitness check, but manager David Moyes will continue to be without Jarrad Branthwaite, Vitalii Mykolenko and Nathan Patterson.

Speaking in Friday's pre-match press conference, Moyes said: "Jarrad is on the way but not fit, neither is Mykolenko – and Nathan Patterson is not fit, either.

"Aznou has trained today for the first time, so we'll see how he goes."

Discussing potential incomings, with the transfer window set to close on Monday 1 September, Moyes added: "I'd like to say yes [there has been progress] but that yes might mean that you're going to push me for more answers than what it might be – but I have to say I think we're trying to make way to get more players in. We're trying to do so.

"We've been disappointed that we've missed out on other players which have chosen not to come or, for different reasons, have not been able to make it – but I think there are quite a few managers saying the same thing in the Premier League. 

"But, yes, I think we're trying to make progress at the moment. Will it come off? I couldn't guarantee that – but we're definitely trying to move on."

The Opposition

Brighton & Hove Albion boss Fabian Hürzeler has confirmed Carlos Baleba and Jack Hinselwood are both fit and available for the Seagulls' trip to Merseyside.

Tom Watson – a summer signing from Sunderland – is doubtful, while Adam Webster and Solly March have been ruled out.

Speaking in his pre-match press conference, Hürzeler said: "The atmosphere [at Goodison Park] was a special atmosphere so I expect the same this weekend. We are looking forward to seeing the new stadium but we are not there to be the nice club.

"Moyes' teams are always very organised and difficult to create chances [against]. You have to be awake all of the time. Grealish is a great signing and I'm sure he will help Everton, he is an unbelievable talent."