Dewsbury-Hall was Everton's brightest attacking prospect although he, too, could not unlock the Cottagers - but it seemed a set-piece might when Tarkowski volleyed home after Keane's header was parried, only for the flag to go up again.

French striker Thierno Barry was given a standing ovation by the crowd at Hill Dickinson Stadium but has to get off the mark since his £27million transfer to the Premier League

Fulham are in trouble late in the second half as Michael Keane gets enough on the ball to guide his effort into the back of the net to make it 2-0 for Everton at Hill Dickinson Stadium.

Everton lack an attacking outlet at full-back beyond summer signing Adam Aznou, who is deemed not physically ready. Between them, Jake O’Brien and Vitalii Mykolenko have created just five chances, and the latter is yet to complete a cross. It has led to an over-reliance on isolated wingers Jack Grealish and Iliman Ndiaye to fashion chances.

David Moyes credited Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall for his impact on the Everton team after one of his best performances for the club.

There was much anticipation ahead of the 2025/26 season, with David Moyes gearing up for his first full campaign at Everton since departing the club 12 years ago. ​It began in the worst possible way,

Sunderland has come from behind to draw with Everton 1-1 at home in the Premier League. The surprising Black Cats move into fourth place, equal on points with Liverpool and Bournemouth.

Everton manager Carlo Ancelotti has not given up hope his side can secure European football next season despite Monday's 1-1 draw with Crystal Palace denting their chances.