Sean Dyche Faces Selection Crisis as Everton Prepare for Tottenham Clash

Everton manager Sean Dyche is grappling with a selection crisis early in the season, with his squad reduced to “around 14 recognised first-team players” ahead of their Premier League match against Tottenham on Saturday.

The Toffees head to north London after a disappointing 3-0 defeat at home to Brighton in their opening fixture, and Dyche’s options have been severely limited due to injuries, suspensions, and a lack of squad depth.

“We are stretched, unfortunately,” Dyche admitted. “We are down to around 14 recognised first-team players at the minute; that is not perfect. The challenge is right in front of us, as always.”

Everton’s defensive options are particularly thin. Club captain Seamus Coleman is sidelined with a calf injury, while Nathan Patterson is out long-term. The situation worsened after veteran full-back Ashley Young was sent off against Brighton, resulting in his suspension for the upcoming game. James Garner, a midfielder capable of filling in at right-back, is also unavailable, which could force Dyche to call upon teenager Roman Dixon. Additionally, centre-back James Tarkowski is a doubt, and Jarrad Branthwaite is still recovering from a groin injury.

“It is still an ongoing challenge,” said Dyche. “We have not got much financially to correct the situation. We have just got to work with the players and hope their fitness gets back to being fully fit and then staying fit.”

Despite spending around £40 million on new signings this summer, Everton have recouped approximately £70 million by selling key players like Amadou Onana, Lewis Dobbin, and Ben Godfrey. With limited funds remaining, Dyche indicated that any further signings before the transfer window closes would likely be loan deals.

Asked about the possibility of additional transfers, Dyche was cautious: “I think that is unlikely. We worked very hard in the market and brought in players who we think can develop into the Premier League. They are not all game-ready straightaway, but we think they are good players that can grow into the club.”