David Moyes cut a notably calm and relaxed figure at Finch Farm as he addressed the media ahead of Monday’s trip to Old Trafford. The Everton manager acknowledged that the club is still at a very early stage of a major rebuild, but believes the foundations being laid are strong and heading in the right direction.
Moyes also goes back to Old Trafford as Everton manager for the first time, a milestone not lost on him, though he kept the focus firmly on his current squad rather than his past. A victory on Monday could take Everton up to 5th place, an early sign of progress under his second spell in charge.
Everton manager David Moyes has highlighted the continued development of Merlin Röhl, Beto and Adam Aznou as the squad prepares for Monday night’s visit to Old Trafford.
Röhl’s Absence Felt
Moyes admitted he is frustrated not to have had more time on the pitch with Merlin Röhl, who has been sidelined by a combination of injuries in recent weeks.
“Merlin’s an incredible athlete,” Moyes said. “He’s quick, powerful, covers the ground well and can play in a few different positions for us. It’s disappointing we’ve not had him available because he would have featured more by now.”
Röhl initially suffered a rib injury in training and later underwent a procedure to repair a hernia, which has delayed his return. Moyes made it clear the midfielder remains a significant part of his plans once he regains full fitness.
Beto and the Centre-Forward Decision
Moyes also discussed the evolving approach in the forward line. The Everton manager praised the improvements in control and ball progression this season, but remained non-committal on whether Beto will return to lead the line at Old Trafford.
“Beto is adapting to a slightly different style this season,” Moyes explained, noting the team’s increased possession and more structured build-up play.
However, after Barry’s strong showing at Fulham, the decision over who starts up front remains open. Moyes did not confirm whether he would continue with Barry after that performance or turn to Beto’s experience for a difficult away fixture.
Aznou Following a Familiar Path
Nineteen-year-old left-back Adam Aznou continues to train with the first team as he builds his physical profile. Moyes drew a deliberate parallel with Leighton Baines, who needed time to grow into Premier League demands before becoming a club great.
“Adam’s coming on well,” Moyes said. “He’s still young and still developing physically, but so was Leighton when he arrived. Baines went on to become one of the best left-backs around. We hope Adam can do the same in time.”
Moyes stressed that Aznou is progressing as expected and remains firmly in the club’s long-term plans.
Short Game Preview: Manchester United vs Everton
Everton head to Old Trafford on Monday night looking to turn improved control in matches into goals. Moyes does not believe his side will be intimidated by the occasion.
“We don’t fear going anywhere now,” he said. “We’ve been defensively solid, we’ve got international players, and we’re handling the ball better.”
Manchester United’s inconsistency this season offers Everton an opportunity, but the Blues will need to be clinical if they are to take points home.
The manager’s decision at centre-forward — Barry or Beto — is set to be one of the key talking points heading into the match, while Röhl continues his recovery and Aznou works steadily behind the scenes.
