Everton have received a significant fitness boost ahead of their crucial Premier League clash with Brentford this Saturday, with attacker Iliman Ndiaye declared available for selection.
Ndiaye had withdrawn from Senegal's international squad due to an injury concern, sparking worries among the Toffees' faithful. However, manager David Moyes has now confirmed the forward is fit and ready to contribute in what promises to be a pivotal match for European qualification hopes.
"We've just about got a fully fit squad," Moyes stated in his pre-match press conference, providing a welcome update for a team in the thick of a tight league battle.
The news isn't entirely positive, however, as midfielder Charly Alcaraz remains sidelined, though he is progressing. "Charly Alcaraz is back in early training – he’s not available for the game but he’s getting closer to being fit again," Moyes added.
With both Everton and Brentford level on points, the match carries immense weight in the race for a European spot. Moyes acknowledged the high stakes and the special motivation driving his team. "I’m wary of getting too caught up in it, but the fact of the matter is, I want to talk about it," he said.
Emphasizing the club's ambition, Moyes highlighted the transformative power of European football. "This club, this group of supporters have suffered so much. The thought of getting them back into Europe... makes me think it’d be fantastic for the supporters here and the club. The nights I had at West Ham in Europe were brilliant, brilliant nights. I’m hoping I get the opportunity to do that again."
Ndiaye's return adds a key creative threat for Everton as they look to secure a vital three points and take a step closer to realizing those European dreams.
