Everton vs Manchester United
Injuries and suspensions: Both teams have losses, but Manchester United are worse off
Everton
Defender Jake O'Brien was sent off last time out and is suspended for this match — Tarkowski and Branthwaite are forced to partner at centre-back
Midfielder Christian Nørgaard (muscle injury) is out, reducing the midfield's ability to intercept and cover ground
Positive: New signing Jack Grealish has joined on loan (but is carrying an injury and is doubtful to play); striker Barry is in red-hot form, with 4 goals in all competitions
Concern: They sold key winger Ndiaye in the summer window, failed to sign Balogun, and have only Barry left as a recognized centre-forward
Manchester United (their midfield and defence are almost gutted)
Confirmed absentees: Matthijs de Ligt (back injury, out since late 2025, targeting a return next month), Manuel Ugarte (torn cruciate ligament, long-term, expected back in May 2027), Carlos Baleba (ankle), Amad Diallo Traoré, and goalkeeper Heaton
Could return: Mason Mount (foot injury, back in full training and could make the squad); Luke Shaw is available
The only option is to push Mainoo and Tielemans as a double pivot, with B. Fernandes ahead of them at No. 10
Defence: Maguire and Lisandro Martínez at centre-back, Dalot and Luke Shaw at full-back