David Moyes
Everton manager David Moyes has confirmed that summer signing Merlin Rohl will be sidelined following an operation for a hernia injury. The midfielder, who joined Everton on a season-long loan from Freiburg, has made a positive impression in training and during his appearances off the bench. Moyes also addressed the club’s January transfer plans amid speculation surrounding James Garner.
David Moyes said: “Hopefully by the time we get around to December, he’ll be fit and ready to go again.”
Moyes highlighted the significance of Rohl’s return in December, coinciding with the absence of Idrissa Gueye and Iliman Ndiaye, who will be representing Senegal at the Africa Cup of Nations. This tournament could see the duo miss a substantial portion of Everton’s December and January fixtures. Consequently, Moyes acknowledged the need for reinforcements in the transfer market but dismissed the possibility of splurging £60 million on Scott McTominay, who has excelled in Serie A with Napoli and played a pivotal role in Scotland’s World Cup qualification.
David Moyes said: “The reality is I would never talk about other players but if you’re talking about £60m, I don’t think we’re quite at that level yet. We’re working towards it, we’re trying to build ourselves back up, and get on solid ground again. We’ve done that with the new owners, new stadium and staying up last year, but we have to make sure we go steady. I don’t think we’ll be shooting for the stars straight away. That’s not to say it might not happen, but my gut feeling is that it’s not a market we’ll be in.”
Moyes elaborated on Everton’s approach to the January transfer window, emphasizing that significant acquisitions are typically made during the summer. However, he did not rule out the possibility of strengthening the squad in January, noting that some quality players have been signed during this period in the past.
David Moyes said: “You do most of your buying in the summer but that’s not to say we wouldn’t try to add to the squad in January. We may do so this window but I think everybody knows January is not a good window. But there’s been some good players brought in January and we’ll look to do the same.”
The Everton manager also commented on the positive impact of fan support on Thierno Barry’s confidence following the team’s victory over Fulham. Additionally, Moyes mentioned that club captain Seamus Coleman is vying for a starting position after aiding the Republic of Ireland in reaching the World Cup qualifying play-offs.
Regarding the transfer speculation surrounding James Garner, Moyes was clear about his intentions to retain the midfielder, who is in the final year of his contract.
David Moyes said: “I have no intention of letting him go. There’s been no phone calls in my phone or anybody in the club that I know of about Jimmy Garner. We’ll obviously look to renew Jimmy’s contract when we’re ready to do so.”
As Everton navigates the challenges of the upcoming transfer window, Moyes remains focused on strategic growth and stability, ensuring the club continues its upward trajectory.
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