Branthwaite Fitness Update & Team News For Coventry Test

David Moyes hopes to have Jarrad Branthwaite fit and available for Everton's Friday night clash with Coventry City at Hill Dickinson Stadium.

The Toffees head into the fixture on the back of two wins in quick succession over Newcastle United – in the Carabao Cup and Premier League respectively – and currently sit seventh in the league table.

Branthwaite was withdrawn after 82 minutes of the 1-0 victory at St James' Park on Monday with cramp but, speaking in Thursday's pre-match press conference at Finch Farm, Blues boss Moyes said he is hopeful the defender will be ready to feature against Coventry.

Moyes said: "Yeah, we're just nursing [Branthwaite] along a wee bit, just checking to see he's okay, so we need to see how he is, yes."

When asked about the availability of Jack Grealish for Friday's game, Moyes added: "Jack is not available. I wouldn't give you the plan, but we will be working with Jack again soon."

Discussing a potential maiden England call-up for Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, with Three Lions head coach Thomas Tuchel set to announce his squad for the upcoming international break on Friday, Moyes said: "I say this every time I get asked but thank goodness I don't have to pick the England team, because I think England have got so many good players to choose from.

"Kiernan's form is getting back to his levels of last year. Recently, in the past couple of games, he's been very good. So, I hope he does. He certainly must be around it, knocking on the door – but, again, the position he plays in, there are so many good players who could also claim those roles.

"As long as he keeps doing well for Everton, we'll be pleased, but if he gets recognised for England, then that would be great as well."

The Opposition 

Frank Lampard is set to be in the opposing team's dugout for the first time since leaving his role as Everton manager in January 2023.

Coventry City will be without Aurele Amenda and Haji Wright for the game, while Josh Eccles and Luke Woolfenden are also expected to remain sidelined.

Bobby Thomas and Frank Onyeka face late fitness checks.