Everton face Liverpool on Wednesday at Goodison Park. The timing of the Merseyside derby couldn’t have been worse. Everton are disjointed, lackluster and going through a miserable patch of form. The Toffees head into the game without a win in the last seven games. A lot has been happening around Everton. Here is the daily news update.
Abdoulaye Doucoure insists that Everton need a result against Liverpool
Abdoulaye Doucoure returned to the side after missing four games due to a metatarsal injury. The Frenchman is expected to play against Liverpool and ahead of the derby he spoke to the club’s official website and highlighted the importance of getting a result.
"“We need a result in the derby and if we can have it against Liverpool, it will be great for the fans and we can come back and have a strong run. I have never played a derby with the fans and they will very important for us. I was in great form [before injury] but I have come back in a difficult moment and have to do everything in my power to help the team.It is not so easy for us at the moment but we need them and can have a great result on Wednesday. We know the fans are demanding more, that is normal, you play for Everton and have to get results. At the moment that is not the case. Every player has to show more character and aggression and achieve results to make the fans happy. (via club’s official website)"
Everton remain interested in Sean Longstaff
According to The Chronicle, Everton remains keen on Sean Longstaff. Along with Everton, a number of European sides also remain keen on the midfielder who’s deal runs out in June 2022. Newcastle United are mulling over upgrading their squad in January and player exits could make room for new signings.
Longstaff has been linked with the Toffees since the summer but back then a deal did not materialize. The Toffees need reinforcements in the winter transfer window to stop the plunge. Given that his Newcastle contract will expire in June next summer, he could be available for a bargain price in January.
Jarrad Branthwaite contract extension and loan
Everton youngster Jarrad Branthwaite is close to agreeing to a five year deal with Everton and will head out on loan in January after the deal has been signed, as per Daily Mail. The 19 year old has remained Everton’s fifth choice centre back and a loan deal would help him gain experience and regular playing time.
As many as five Championship clubs have already enquired about the former Carlisle defender and he could head out on loan to a Championship club in the winter transfer window. Tying down Branthwaite to a new deal will be important for Everton as he is one of the most promising youngsters at the club and needs the right environment to develop.
Can the Royal Blued manage a positive result against Liverpool?