Sean Dyche faces a decision on whether to include Nathan Patterson in Everton's squad for today's Premier League clash against Crystal Palace.

The Toffees are seeking their first league victory after securing only one point from five games. Injuries and player unavailability have posed challenges in the early stages of the season, but Everton are set to welcome back three players following last week's 1-1 draw against Leicester City.

Jarrad Branthwaite is expected to be named on the bench, at the very least. The centre-back was one of Everton’s standout performers last season and attracted interest from Manchester United during the summer transfer window. Branthwaite underwent groin surgery earlier in the summer but experienced setbacks during his recovery. However, after completing 90 minutes for the under-21s in a 4-3 victory over Sunderland, he is ready to make his return to the first team.

Vitalii Mykolenko is also available for selection after missing two matches due to illness. Additionally, Idrissa Gana Gueye returns after the recent passing of his father. However, Dyche has cautioned that Gueye may be slightly lacking in match fitness after travelling back to Senegal.

The main question mark is over Nathan Patterson. The Scotland international suffered a serious hamstring injury in April, which required surgery. Patterson played for an hour in the under-21s’ fixture against Sunderland, but Dyche indicated during his pre-match press conference that the right-back's recovery has been slower than Branthwaite’s.

Seamus Coleman (calf), Armando Broja (ankle), Youssef Chermiti (foot), and youngster Stanley Mills (knee) all remain sidelined.