Moyes tight-lipped as Norgaard unlikely for Arsenal trip
Everton manager David Moyes has refused to reveal his team news for the Premier League clash at Arsenal, but confirmed that midfielder Christian Norgaard is unlikely to feature after a difficult return from injury. Jarrad Branthwaite's availability also remains unclear following a collision with Chelsea goalkeeper Emi Martinez.
- Competition: Premier League
- Fixture: Arsenal vs Everton
- Everton manager: David Moyes
- Key absentee: Christian Norgaard (unlikely to feature)
- Fitness concern: Jarrad Branthwaite (collision with Emi Martinez)
- Manager stance: Moyes declined to provide further squad updates
What was said
"He apologised for his performance and was clearly not ready to play."
Moyes' comments underline the delicate situation with Norgaard. The Denmark international, who joined Everton in the summer from Arsenal, made a tough return from injury in his debut last Saturday. His apology suggests he recognises he was not at the required level, and Moyes' reluctance to risk him again so soon is understandable.
The Everton boss also chose not to elaborate on Branthwaite's condition after the defender's collision with Martinez, which left the Chelsea goalkeeper with a fractured jaw. Moyes' silence on the matter leaves Branthwaite's chances of featuring against Arsenal uncertain.
Injury and availability
- Christian Norgaard: Unlikely to feature after making a tough return from injury in his debut last Saturday; apologised for his performance and clearly not ready to play.
- Jarrad Branthwaite: Involved in a collision with Chelsea goalkeeper Emi Martinez, who suffered a fractured jaw; Moyes declined to provide further updates on his health.
Why Moyes must tread carefully with Norgaard
Christian Norgaard arrived at Everton in the summer with expectations of adding steel to the midfield. However, his debut last Saturday exposed a player still short of match sharpness. Moyes' admission that Norgaard apologised for his performance is a rare public insight into the manager's thinking. The Dane's absence would leave Everton lighter in central areas, but rushing him back could risk further setbacks.
Jarrad Branthwaite's situation is equally concerning. The defender's collision with Emi Martinez was serious enough to fracture the goalkeeper's jaw, yet Moyes offered no clarity on Branthwaite's own condition. If the centre-back is unavailable, Everton's backline will need reshuffling against an Arsenal side known for its attacking fluidity. Moyes' refusal to divulge details may be a tactical smokescreen, but it leaves fans guessing.
With Norgaard likely out and Branthwaite doubtful, Everton's midfield and defence could be tested. Moyes will demand a disciplined, organised display to frustrate Arsenal, but the absence of key personnel may force a more conservative approach. The manager's tight-lipped stance suggests he is still weighing his options.
Talking points
- Should Moyes have played Norgaard last Saturday if he wasn't fully fit? The apology suggests a misjudgement that could cost Everton dearly.
- Is Branthwaite's collision with Martinez a sign of his commitment or recklessness? The defender must balance aggression with control.
- Moyes' secrecy over team news is understandable, but does it undermine fan trust when injuries are unclear?
- Without Norgaard, Everton's midfield lacks physicality; can they cope with Arsenal's press?
What happens next
Everton travel to Arsenal for their next Premier League fixture. Moyes will assess Norgaard and Branthwaite in the coming days before finalising his squad. The Toffees need a result to build momentum, but with key players doubtful, the manager faces a selection dilemma. Arsenal, meanwhile, will look to capitalise on any Everton weakness.
Frequently asked questions
Is Christian Norgaard playing for Everton against Arsenal?
Norgaard is unlikely to feature after making a tough return from injury in his debut last Saturday. Moyes said the midfielder apologised for his performance and was clearly not ready to play.
What happened to Jarrad Branthwaite?
Branthwaite was involved in a collision with Chelsea goalkeeper Emi Martinez, which saw the Argentinian fracture his jaw. Moyes decided against providing any further updates on the health of his squad.
Did David Moyes reveal his team news for Arsenal vs Everton?
No, Moyes was tight-lipped over team news and declined to give further updates on the health of his squad.
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