Everton enter the weekend with renewed confidence after a hard-earned 1-0 victory at Bournemouth in midweek, their third win in four matches. Moyes admitted the result had lifted the mood but warned his players to respond strongly at home following last weekend's 4-1 defeat by Newcastle United.

"We have probably taken more points at this stage than we have managed in the past four or five years," Moyes said. "It has been a good start but there is still room for improvement."

Forest arrived under Dyche, whose side have shown resilience under his guidance. Moyes recognised the work done by his predecessor, adding: "I thought Sean did a brilliant job keeping things going here. Others will judge his time better than me, but given the circumstances he did well."

Injuries and Selection Puzzles

Moyes confirmed that captain Seamus Coleman would miss "a little while" with a hamstring injury, while Michael Keane remained a doubt. The midfield options were also stretched, with Tim Iroegbunam joining Idrissa Gueye on the suspension list.

The manager praised Iroegbunam's contribution at Bournemouth, saying: "I was really pleased. There is a player in there somewhere. I just want consistency."

He also applauded Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall's influence after the midfielder earned a nomination for player of the month, describing him as "very good in the dressing room".

Young Talent and Squad Decisions

Moyes reflected on centre-back Jake O'Brien's development, explaining that he had been impressed with his performances across several roles. "He was excellent at Fulham and Newcastle last season," he said. "He maybe has not been as strong at right back this year, but with where the squad is, he may still be the best option there at times."

He admitted he had not watched the Under-21s as closely as before but insisted he would promote any player he believed was ready. "They are doing OK. They maybe need to do a bit more before being ready for the first team."

Grealish "Made to Feel Welcome"

Moyes also addressed Jack Grealish's progress, praising the winger's attitude and fitness. "We have tried to show him a bit of love and make him feel welcome," he said. "The crowd have been brilliant with him. Jack deserves credit for his form. He has made himself fit, available and healthy."

When asked about England's use of AI analysis, Moyes insisted he preferred to rely on traditional methods. "I don't know what AI can tell me on penalties after I have watched twenty or thirty of them," he said, though he admitted he might look into new tools in the future.

With Everton pushing to remain inside the Premier League's top ten, Moyes insisted ambition must be matched by consistency. "The league is so competitive. If we want to put ourselves in amongst it, we need to take our chances," he said.

Everton now look to respond in front of their own supporters, and to spoil Dyche's reunion, by delivering another decisive performance.

SuperSport United coach Gavin Hunt takes positives from Confederation Cup draw