Aston Villa vs Everton team news: six players ruled out, two doubts ...
Aston Villa vs Everton team news. Picture: Clive Mason/Getty Images
Everton turn their attention to the Carabao Cup when they travel to Aston Villa in the third round on Wednesday (19.45 BST).
The Toffees’ chief aim in the 2023-24 season is to avoid a Premier League relegation battle, having narrowly avoided the drop in the past two campaigns. There were fears that another dogfight was in the offing after Everton claimed just one point in their opening six top-flight games before a 3-1 win at Brentford last weekend has moved Sean Dyche’s side up to 15th in the table.
While survival is key, there are sections of fans who’d like to see the Blues challenge for silverware. It’s been 28 years since the club won a trophy and fans rued how Everton crashed out of this competition last season as they suffered an embarrassing 4-1 loss to AFC Bournemouth.
The Everton captain is hoping to make a playing return in October. He’s back running on the grasss.
Dyche’s side also suffered a humbling 4-0 loss at Villa Park in August so they know they’re in for a tough test. Ahead of the clash, here’s a look at the team news for both sides.
Remains sidelined with a hip injury but is back running on the grass. (Photo: George Wood/Getty Images)
The midfielder has not been involved in an Everton game since the opening day of the season. Dyche has admitted he wants Gomes to get fit.
The on-loan Leeds winger played for Everton under-21s last week. Much depends on whether he’s deemed ready for first-team action although he did not feature for the under-21s last night, which suggests he’ll be involved. (Photo: STEVE BARDENS/AFP via Getty Images)
The Villa attacking midfielder has an ACL injury that will make him unavailable for the long term.
Another key Villa player who has an ACL injury and won’t be back any time soon. (Photo: George Wood/Getty Images)
The youngster has not played for Villa all season after undergoing surgery in May.
The midfielder has missed Villa’s previous five games.
The Villa defender returned to training last week after a hamstring injury. Much will depend on whether he’s deemed ready. (Photo: James Gilbert/Getty Images for Premier League)
