Everton manager David Moyes has set the stage for a pivotal Merseyside derby this Sunday, offering key updates on his squad and the club's ambitions as the Premier League season reaches its climax. With the clash against Liverpool at the new Hill Dickinson Stadium looming, the Toffees are nearing full strength at a crucial time.
In a significant boost, Moyes confirmed the return of dynamic midfielder Charly Alcaraz to the fold. The squad is almost at full fitness, with only Jack Grealish remaining sidelined. This news comes at a perfect moment, injecting energy and options into the team for one of the most intense fixtures on the calendar.
When asked about the possibility of catching their historic rivals, Moyes kept his focus broad but ambitious. "We're looking to catch whoever is above us," he stated, emphasizing the dual challenge of climbing the table while fending off the teams below. "We have six games to go and we have something to play for here," he added, highlighting the meaningful stakes of the final stretch.
Reflecting on the club's journey, Moyes pointed to a positive shift in mentality. "Over recent years, it's been the wrong thing we've been playing for," he admitted, referencing past relegation battles. "This year we're getting a bit closer to where you'd hope we'd be. I'm hoping we can keep it going and keep that dream alive." This "dream" is clearly a push for European qualification, a target that would mark a major step forward for the project.
The manager also praised the resurgence of striker Beto, whose improved form has been a welcome development. "I've seen good signs all year," Moyes said, attributing the forward's recent impact to his relentless work ethic and impeccable attitude. "His effort to work is as big as anybody's," a trait that resonates with the hard-working identity Moyes wants his team to embody.
Amidst reports of contract extension talks, Moyes remained characteristically focused on the pitch. He dismissed the personal significance, stressing that his primary concern is building an Everton that competes "high up in the league every season."
The emotional weight of the derby is amplified this year by the move to the new stadium. Moyes reminisced about the dramatic 2-2 draw at Goodison Park last season, calling it "amazing" and a "privilege," while acknowledging the sadness of leaving the historic ground. Now, the mission is to create new history. "We're in the Hill Dicky now and we're enjoying it," he said, ready to write the first major chapter in their new home against their oldest foes.