Everton fans have reason to smile as manager David Moyes delivers a timely injury boost ahead of Monday's clash with Premier League title contenders Manchester City. The Toffees will welcome back striker Beto, who missed the previous match against West Ham after being substituted off during the Merseyside derby due to concussion protocols.
Currently sitting in 11th place, Everton are just three points adrift of sixth position, keeping their European ambitions very much alive. A win against Pep Guardiola's formidable City side would be a massive statement and could propel them into the conversation for continental football next season.
Manchester City arrive at Goodison Park on the back of an impressive six-match unbeaten run across all competitions, intensifying the pressure on title rivals Arsenal. However, Moyes will take confidence from having his Portuguese forward available again.
"He's had to go through the protocol for concussion, which was correct, so he's gone through that period and has been training," Moyes confirmed on Friday. The 28-year-old has now rejoined the squad and is ready for selection.
When asked about other fitness concerns, the Everton boss remained cautiously optimistic: "At the moment, everything is as we are. Like always, we have a few knocks and niggles, so we'll just have to see how we are come Monday night."
On the injury front, Jarrad Branthwaite and Jack Grealish remain sidelined with hamstring and foot injuries respectively, with both players unlikely to feature again for Everton this season.
This matchup promises to be a thrilling encounter as Moyes looks to mastermind another famous Goodison Park result against the Premier League's elite.
