Godwin ObajeEverton Receive Key Boost Ahead of Blackburn Rovers Pre-Season Clash
Everton are set to make significant squad changes for their upcoming pre-season friendly against Blackburn Rovers, as David Moyes looks to rotate his side and build momentum ahead of the new Premier League season.
The Toffees were held to a 1-1 draw by Accrington Stanley in midweek at the Wham Stadium, fielding a mixed XI that included senior names such as Michael Keane, Dwight McNeil, Jarrad Branthwaite, and James Garner alongside several academy talents.
Moyes’ side are expected to raise the tempo and intensity for Saturday’s trip to Ewood Park, marking the final leg of a trio of friendlies involving the three North West clubs. Rovers, under new manager Valerien Ismael, edged out Accrington 2-1 last weekend and now face a tougher test against Premier League opposition.
Everton’s preparation has been given a timely double boost with the return of senior internationals Jordan Pickford and Idrissa Gueye to training. England No.1 Pickford is back after a post-Euro 2024 break and is likely to feature against Rovers. The club has also bolstered its goalkeeping options with the £4 million signing of Mark Travers from Bournemouth, who is set to be Pickford’s understudy.
The return of Gueye and fellow international Iliman Ndiaye, who represented Senegal earlier this summer, adds depth to Everton’s midfield. However, both players may be eased back into action, with the coaching staff mindful of their current fitness levels.
Against Accrington, Everton gave homegrown goalkeeper Harry Tyrer a start in the absence of senior shot-stoppers. His inclusion reflected the transitional period the squad is undergoing, following the departures of Joao Virginia and Asmir Begovic last month.
Further changes are expected at Ewood Park, with a number of substitutes from Tuesday night now pushing for starts. Striker Beto is likely to lead the line after scoring the equaliser at Accrington from the spot. He was awarded the penalty after promising youngster Isaac Heath was brought down inside the box—a moment that underlined Heath’s potential as one to watch during pre-season.
Jake O’Brien is also in contention for a start, having featured from the bench midweek. The versatile defender can play both centrally and at right-back, giving Moyes options as he looks to test different combinations.
With more senior players returning to the fold and younger talents continuing to impress, Everton’s clash with Blackburn promises to be a competitive step in their preparations. For Rovers, it offers an invaluable chance to measure themselves against elite-level opposition under their new boss.
The friendly marks a significant step up in quality for Ismael’s men and provides a key benchmark ahead of the new Championship campaign.
Everton’s ability to integrate returning internationals and evaluate emerging prospects will be crucial as Moyes refines his squad for the challenges ahead.
Godwin Obaje
