Everton vs Sunderland Match Preview: Key Absences and Impact
Match Context
Everton host Sunderland at Hill Dickinson Stadium in Liverpool on 17 May 2026 in Premier League Regular Season - 37. Everton sit 10th on 49 points with a goal difference of 0, while Sunderland are 12th on 48 points with a goal difference of -9.
Everton Availability
Everton have three confirmed absentees.
- J. Branthwaite (Hamstring Injury) is sidelined.
- J. Grealish (Foot Injury) is sidelined.
- I. Gueye (Injury) is sidelined.
Grealish’s absence is a major blow creatively: he has contributed 2 goals and 6 assists in 20 league appearances, adding 40 key passes and strong ball-carrying numbers. With 7 assists and 52 key passes, J. Garner remains available as Everton’s primary supply line from midfield.
Sunderland Availability
Sunderland will be without two players.
- D. Ballard (Red Card) is sidelined.
- R. Mundle (Hamstring Injury) is sidelined.
Ballard’s suspension removes an experienced defender from a back line that has conceded 46 goals in 36 matches. In midfield, G. Xhaka, who has 1 goal and 6 assists plus 34 key passes, is available to anchor Sunderland’s buildup and set-piece threat.
Impact Summary
Everton lose significant creativity with Grealish out but retain Garner to drive their attacking output. Sunderland’s main creative hub Xhaka is available, yet Ballard’s suspension could expose a defense already allowing more goals than Everton.
