Everton are set to play their first-ever competitive match at the new Hill Dickinson Stadium on Sunday, a historic occasion that manager David Moyes is relishing.
However, Moyes has admitted the pressure is on to get a result after a poor start to the season, and his preparations have been severely hampered by a defensive injury crisis.
Everton vs Brighton & Hove Albion – Predicted lineup and team news
Everton team news
David Moyes has confirmed his side is facing a “full-blown defensive crisis” for their first match at the new stadium. He will be without three key defenders, with full-backs Nathan Patterson and Vitaliy Mykolenko ruled out, alongside centre-back Jarrad Branthwaite.
▶️ David Moyes confirms that Jarrad Branthwaite, Vitalii Mykolenko and Nathan Patterson will miss Sunday's game with Brighton, but confirms that Adam Aznou returned to training today. pic.twitter.com/KS6YId1kU9
— Everton (@Everton) August 22, 2025
The injuries force a defensive reshuffle. Veteran Séamus Coleman could come into the defence. The only positive news for the backline is that new signing Adam Aznou has returned to training and could provide cover from the bench.
Further up the pitch, star loanee Jack Grealish is pushing hard for his first start and is expected to be brought in to add much-needed creativity.
Everton predicted Lineup
Everton predicted XI: Pickford; O’Brien, Tarkowski, Keane, Garner; Ndiaye, Dewsbury-Hall, Gueye, McNeil; Grealish, Beto.
When is Everton vs Brighton?
The Premier League fixture takes place at the Hill Dickinson Stadium on Sunday, 24th August 2025, with kick-off scheduled for 2pm BST.
How to watch Everton vs Brighton?
The match will be broadcast live on Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports Ultra HDR in the UK. Coverage begins at 1:30pm BST.
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