Tim Iroegbunam eyes more game time after being handed a rare run in Everton’s midfield on Saturday against Arsenal by coach David Moyes.
Everton are short of options in the centre of the pitch, with injuries and international duty stretching their squad. Idrissa Gueye remains unavailable while representing Senegal at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations and is set to miss several more matches.
Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall is also sidelined after suffering a hamstring injury in last week’s defeat to Chelsea.
Merlin Rohl returned to action as a second-half substitute in Saturday’s 1-0 loss to Arsenal after time out injured. However, the German midfielder looked short of match sharpness during his cameo and may need more time to regain full fitness.
That situation has opened the door for Iroegbunam, and the 22-year-old has said he is ready to make the most of it.
Speaking after the Arsenal match, Iroegbunam said: “I always look up to Idrissa, but I’m hoping I can show what I can do so that when he comes back, I’m giving the gaffer a reason to not put him straight back in.
“That’s on me. That’s my opportunity. I’ve just got to go and grab it.”
Iroegbunam backed up his words with a strong display in midfield despite the defeat. He finished the match with the highest number of tackles and the most interceptions of any player on the pitch, underlining his defensive impact. He also showed impressive energy, covering the second-highest distance during the game.
Reflecting on his performance, he added: “I worked hard, put in good tackles and carried the team forwards at some points. I wouldn’t say it was a perfect performance.
“I’ve been in and out of the team. I missed the Nottingham Forest game because I had five yellow cards. I feel like I did a quite-decent job.
“There’s still loads to come, but it’s definitely a performance to build on.”
Everton will next be in Premier League action on Saturday when they travel to face Burnley.
