James Garner is expected to continue his recovery with minutes with Everton’s Under-21s. The midfielder has been out since suffering a back injury during the October international break.

He made his comeback to first-team training this week as he stepped up his preparations for a return to competitive football.

His first taste of action of 2025 is not expected to come with the senior side, however. Given the length of time out, his return is set to begin under the guidance of Paul Tait with the U21s.

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The 23-year-old, who has featured just four times this season, was not deemed ready to be part of the youth set-up for Friday night’s 3-1 defeat to Leeds United in Southport.

But he could feature in an upcoming game, according to new Blues boss David Moyes. The U21s travel to Newcastle United next Friday before heading to Cardiff City for Premier League Cup action the following week.

Garner is one of several senior players currently absent through injury. Seamus Coleman, Dwight McNeil, Tim Iroegbunam and Youssef Chermiti are all expected to be unavailable for the next senior game, the Premier League clash with Tottenham Hotspur at Goodison Park on Sunday.

Chelsea loan striker Armando Broja is set to be out until spring following his latest setback. Talks between Everton and Chelsea over what his injury should mean for his loan spell are ongoing