Moyes to Hold Off on Contract Talks with Everton Players Until Premier League Safety is Secured

Everton manager David Moyes addressed the media in his recent press conference as he gears up for the clash against Brentford at the Gtech Community Stadium on Wednesday evening.

Moyes was initially questioned about the controversial decision not to award his team a late penalty during Saturday’s 2-2 draw with Manchester United, a call that could have potentially earned them a vital three points.

“I still feel exactly the same as I did during the match. I believed it was a penalty and was quite taken aback when they opted to refer it to VAR. Having seen it again in the changing room, I was even more surprised that it went to VAR,” he stated.

“We have reached out to discuss it with PGMOL, but that moment has passed. There’s nothing we can do now. It was disappointing not to get the penalty, but we have to move forward.”

The Everton boss then turned his attention to player contracts for the upcoming season. He indicated that no decisions would be made until the club secures its position away from relegation.

“All the players are understandably eager about their futures. However, this club has only recently stabilised its future with new ownership coming in, and we’re still adjusting to that transition,” he said.

“I’ve made it clear that we won’t be looking into any contracts until we’re fully safe. Hopefully, that time will arrive sooner rather than later.

“I want to maintain a positive outlook and believe we will remain in the Premier League, but there is still work to be done to ensure that. It’s also imperative that we start planning and preparing for another season in the league.”

When discussing the team’s condition, Moyes mentioned that Jesper Lindstrøm, Tim Iroegbunam, and a few other players have been feeling unwell with fever and flu-like symptoms, but thankfully, everyone has now recovered and is ready for the match on Wednesday.

“Lindstrøm had a bit of a fever and was experiencing flu-like symptoms, which I was aware of, and he struggled a bit – but he’s back to normal now,” he confirmed.

“There were actually a couple of players dealing with it – Tim (Iroegbunam) was among them – but everyone seems to be fine now.”

“Nobody else is returning. Nathan Patterson has resumed training, but having just come back, I think Wednesday’s game may arrive a bit too soon for him.”