AliousEverton will close out 2024 with a highly anticipated Premier League clash against Nottingham Forest at Goodison Park on Sunday (3 pm GMT).
The year has been a tumultuous one for the Toffees, but it concludes on a positive note.
The Friedkin Group’s takeover from Farhad Moshiri has been finalized, and the club has officially received the keys to its new stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock.
Sean Dyche’s side will aim to end the year on a high, building on a recent run of solid results.
Everton have managed impressive draws against Arsenal, Chelsea, and Manchester City, picking up unexpected points and boosting morale.
However, the challenge on Sunday is significant.
Forest, this season’s surprise package, are defying expectations and currently in contention for a Champions League spot.
Their recent 1-0 victory over Tottenham Hotspur highlights their quality, setting up an intriguing matchup at Goodison Park.
Everton Team News
**James Garner – Out**
The former Forest loanee remains sidelined due to a back injury sustained in October. He has not yet returned to team training.
**Tim Iroegbunam – Out**
The midfielder has been out with a foot issue since October, missing several games after a promising start to his loan spell from Aston Villa. Like Garner, he has not resumed training with the squad.
**Stanley Mills – Out**
The 21-year-old has returned to full training after nearly a year recovering from a severe knee injury but will require game time with the U21s before being considered for senior action.
**Iliman Ndiaye – Minor Doubt**
Ndiaye experienced calf tightness after scoring in the 1-1 draw with Manchester City and was substituted as a precaution. His availability will be crucial for Everton’s attacking threat.
**Seamus Coleman – Minor Doubt**
Coleman, who was withdrawn late against City, is dealing with a minor issue. Manager Sean Dyche is hopeful the captain’s fitness will improve in time for Sunday.
**Dwight McNeil – Doubt**
The forward continues to struggle with a knee problem and is at risk of missing a fourth consecutive match.
**Ashley Young – Available**
The experienced defender returns to the squad after serving a one-match suspension for accumulating five yellow cards in the Premier League.
Nottingham Forest Team News
Ryan Yates – Out
The Forest captain is unavailable due to a one-game suspension after picking up his fifth yellow card of the season.
**Ibrahim Sangare – Out**
The Ivory Coast international remains sidelined with a foot injury that has kept him out since September.
**Danilo – Doubt**
The midfielder is nearing a return from an ankle injury sustained on the opening day of the season. While back in training, it remains uncertain whether he will be included in the matchday squad.
**Nicolas Dominguez – Available**
The Argentine midfielder returns after serving a one-match suspension for reaching the yellow card limit.
What to Expect
Everton will look to maintain their defensive solidity while hoping for Ndiaye’s availability to provide a spark in attack.
Meanwhile, Forest will aim to continue their surprising run, even as injuries and suspensions test their squad depth.
With both sides eager to end the year on a positive note, fans can expect a competitive and closely fought encounter.
Alious
