Everton weigh midfield options as confidence grows over key contractEverton’s January planning is already being shaped by a familiar mix of optimism and necessity. Credit to TeamTalk for outlining a...
Everton weigh midfield options as confidence grows over key contract
Everton’s January planning is already being shaped by a familiar mix of optimism and necessity. Credit to TeamTalk for outlining a situation that feels both encouraging and precarious, with confidence growing over James Garner’s contract extension even as midfield depth is stretched to its limits.
Photo IMAGO
David Moyes approaches Saturday’s meeting with Arsenal with his options severely reduced. Kieran Dewsbury Hall was forced off against Chelsea with a hamstring issue, Merlin Rohl remains sidelined following a hernia operation, and Idrissa Gana Gueye is away at the Africa Cup of Nations with Senegal alongside Iliman Ndiaye. That leaves Garner, Tim Iroegbunam and Charly Alcaraz as Everton’s primary midfield choices for a demanding fixture.
Contract priority remains clear
Everton remain confident about extending Garner’s deal, an important signal at a time when stability matters. Garner has grown into a central figure, valued for his versatility and reliability, and tying him down would represent continuity amid constant squad churn.
That confidence does not eliminate the need to look outward. With the current numbers thin, Everton are monitoring alternatives should circumstances force their hand.
Championship talent attracts attention
“I am told by my colleague, Graeme Bailey, that Everton are interested in Middlesbrough midfielder Hayden Hackney.” The 23 year old has been one of the Championship’s standout performers, attracting interest from multiple Premier League clubs.
Photo: IMAGO
Hackney’s appeal is obvious. Comfortable operating as a six, eight or ten, he has started all 21 league games for Boro, contributing three goals and six assists as they sit second in the table and push for promotion. Any January move would be difficult, with Middlesbrough understandably reluctant to weaken their position.
Future signals worth noting
Sources also state that Hackney is switching agents in January, a detail that often hints at openness to future opportunities if the right move presents itself. For Everton, it is monitoring rather than manoeuvring, but the interest reflects a club planning ahead while hoping to secure its existing core.
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The confidence around James Garner’s contract is the headline that matters most. Fans want reassurance that the club can keep hold of players who represent progress rather than constantly starting again. Garner staying would feel like a small but significant victory.
At the same time, the midfield situation is worrying. Injuries and international absences have exposed how thin the squad still is. Going into a game against Arsenal with so few options feels like tempting fate, and supporters know one more setback could tip the balance.
Hayden Hackney is an interesting name. Everton fans have watched the club shop in the Championship before, sometimes successfully, sometimes not. What appeals here is profile and age. Hackney looks ready rather than speculative, and his versatility would suit a side that needs adaptability more than luxury.
Most supporters accept that January deals are hard and often expensive. There is no demand for reckless spending, just competence. Secure Garner, monitor Hackney, and avoid panic. If Everton can come through this period steady rather than scrambling, fans will view that as genuine progress rather than survival dressed up as ambition.
Category: General Sports
