The Toffees manager discussed his side’s preparations for the campaign’s first top-flight fixture and addressed the ongoing uncertainty surrounding the right-back role.
Moyes revealed that the club remains active in its efforts to recruit a specialist for that flank, while emphasising that adequate alternatives already exist within the current group.
The vacancy has troubled the club for some time, a situation exacerbated by Coleman’s departure during the close season. Throughout the latter stages of the previous term, the former West Ham United manager repeatedly highlighted the requirement to address this weakness.
Although the Merseyside outfit has lodged proposals for multiple targets, he confirmed none remain live. However, he outlined several existing squad members he trusts to fulfil the position adequately.
Beyond Patterson, the sole naturally-suited full-back available but one consistently bypassed by the manager during pre-season activities, Moyes highlighted centre-half O’Brien alongside midfielders Garner and Rohl as viable possibilities.
O’Brien has featured predominantly in that berth throughout Moyes’ second tenure, whereas Garner represented England Under-21s in that capacity. Rohl has received opportunities there throughout the summer schedule.
When questioned at his pre-Palace briefing regarding executive Kinnear’s assertion this week that he anticipated securing a right-back before the window closes, the Scotsman responded that numerous other bosses find themselves pursuing the same profile, indicating the task proves far more straightforward in theory than execution. He stated the club has thoroughly assessed multiple candidates, submitted offers for several, and continues exhausting every avenue to conclude a deal.
Pressed on whether the position constitutes a priority, he maintained that current options continue performing admirably, citing O’Brien’s impressive contributions there, Rohl’s encouraging pre-season displays, and Garner’s standout performances in that role. He stressed the squad does possess capable replacements, though the vacancy remains a concern given their numerical disadvantage following Coleman’s exit, leaving scope for fresh recruitment.
Moyes noted rival clubs such as Manchester City have successfully repurposed players from alternative positions to plug similar gaps, while champions Arsenal have frequently deployed central defenders in the full-back positions.
Regarding unsuccessful approaches, including one for Johnston now sidelined through injury, he attributed failed moves to fitness issues, rejection of proposals, and valuation disputes. He acknowledged the scarcity extends beyond Goodison Park, with genuine quality proving difficult to source. While acquiring a right-back presents no fundamental obstacle, the pursuit centres on finding someone genuinely superior to existing options capable of elevating the squad.
Garner continues his recovery from a hernia procedure alongside fellow midfielders Norgaard and Iroegbunam, rendering all three unavailable for Saturday’s league opener at the Hill Dickinson Stadium.