Mykolenko has a chance to return as Branthwaite faces Everton fitness check

David Moyes says Vitalii Mykolenko has a chance to return against Chelsea, while Jarrad Branthwaite will face a late fitness check before Everton’s Saturday lunchtime match. The update leaves Moyes weighing his options at left-back and centre-back as his side look to extend their unbeaten start.

Mykolenko missed Everton’s 2-2 draw at Hull City after picking up an injury on international duty with Ukraine. Moyes said on Friday that the defender was “doing much better” and had “a chance for the game”. Branthwaite played the full match at Hull after feeling a problem early on, and Moyes said Everton had been monitoring it during the week.

The pair’s status could shape Everton’s defensive choices against Chelsea, who visit at 12:30 BST. Everton are fifth and Chelsea sixth, with both clubs on 10 points after six games.

Christian Nørgaard is another option Moyes may be able to call on, but the midfielder is not ready to start, according to the manager. Moyes said Nørgaard could be used “at certain times, if required”, leaving open the possibility of a club debut from the bench.

Moyes also said Tyrique George was “knocking on the door” for a place on the left wing, where he faces competition from Jack. The manager said George had started slowly before improving and could do a job on either side. That gives Moyes another selection question as he prepares to host Chelsea.

Chelsea will be without captain Reece James after he underwent minor knee surgery. Jamie Gittens is expected to miss the match with an ankle injury. Everton’s immediate concern, though, is whether Mykolenko is ready to return and whether Branthwaite can play after his issue at Hull.