Everton is set to welcome Brentford to Hill Dickinson Stadium on Sunday for their inaugural match of 2026. The Toffees are aiming to build on their recent success, having wrapped up 2025 with a 2-0 victory over Nottingham Forest. This win not only marked an important comeback but also demonstrated the squad’s depth, as they were without several key players and had struggled with scoring in their previous three matches.
In the victory at City Ground, vital contributions came from players like James Garner, James Tarkowski, Jake O’Brien, and Tim Iroegbunam, enabling Everton to secure a coveted spot in the top half of the Premier League standings. Following tough contests against Chelsea and Arsenal, the team is hopeful that their home fixtures against Brentford and bottom-placed Wolves will provide an opportunity to gain more momentum in their quest for European competition.
Historically, Everton has been strong against Brentford, remaining unbeaten in their last six encounters. However, they will be cautious as they have lost their first league match in seven of the last eight calendar years, reminding fans not to take a positive result for granted.
Brentford sits just below Everton in the league table. They played to a goalless draw against Tottenham Hotspur on New Year’s Day and are currently in a solid run of form, remaining unbeaten in their last four outings. Despite their productive attack, led by Igor Thiago, who has netted 11 league goals this season, they struggle defensively, having conceded 26 goals. Notably, they have not scored in their last three away games against Everton.
In terms of team news, Everton has recalled Harrison Armstrong from a loan at Preston North End to help alleviate their injury crisis. Jarrad Branthwaite, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, and Seamus Coleman remain out with long-term injuries. Michael Keane and Charly Alcaraz are doubtful for the match, while Idrissa Gana Gueye and Iliman Ndiaye are away with the Senegal national team as they prepare for the Africa Cup of Nations.
Nathan Patterson returned to the starting lineup against Nottingham Forest and may continue as part of the team, with Jack Grealish likely set to feature after recovering from illness. Everton’s predicted lineup includes Jordan Pickford in goal and a midfield featuring Tim Iroegbunam and James Garner, among others.
The match is scheduled to kick off at 3:00 pm GMT on January 4, 2026, and will be broadcasted on Sky Sports Golf, with live streaming available on Sky Go and the Sky Sports app. As both teams look to make their mark in the new year, fans can expect an exciting clash filled with potential for growth and momentum.