What can you tell us about Everton? Phil McNulty, Chief Football Writer, BBC Sport

Phil was at that dramatic last game of last season against the Toffees and, after covering his seventh World Cup, will be back in N17 this weekend...

There was a lot of talk about Everton during the transfer window - but they appear, from the outside, to be playing well - what's the general consensus?

Phil: "The general consensus has been a solid start, although both of draws came with injury time equalisers when James Tarkowski scored at Bournemouth and that Ainsley Maitland-Niles blockbuster against Manchester United. There are still doubts about how they will score goals, especially after the sales of Iliman Ndiaye and Beto who, even though he was not top Premier League quality, could at least contribute goals and disrupt. They will still lean heavily on goalkeeper Jordan Pickford and the return of Jarrad Branthwaite in central defence after his latest hamstring problem is vital."

The performances of two young midfielders - Hayden Hackney and Harrison Armstrong - have been highlighted - what have you made of them?

Phil: "Very, very impressed. You can tell how highly Harrison Armstrong is regarded by the furore when it leaked out that Everton were involved in talks to sell him to Nottingham Forest. It would not only have been a PR catastrophe to sell arguably Everton’s best Academy product since Wayne Rooney to a club supporters would expect to rival, and hopefully eclipse, but they would have been selling a future star. Tall, elegant and competitive, Armstrong is a real shining light at only 19. Hackney was PFA Championship Player of the Year last season and looks a classic David Moyes signing from the second tier, as when he signed Tim Cahill, Phil Jagielka and Joleon Lescott from the Championship in his first spell at Everton, then when he brought Jarrod Bowen to West Ham United from Hull City. Moyes feels Hackney will need time to adapt but he has made a contribution in every league game. He was excellent from the start against Crystal Palace, made a match-saving block as a substitute against Bournemouth and was heavily involved in creating a goal against Manchester United. Both offer real hope."

Jack Grealish is back - how much difference can he make?

Phil: "He just offers Everton something of an 'X Factor'. He’s clever and creative, draws defenders to him and also draws fouls. Grealish also clearly loves it at Everton and feels the love back from supporters who relish his type of player. He did well on loan last season until breaking his foot in January and there was always the likelihood he would come back, such was his relationship with the club, its fans and manager David Moyes. There is real mutual admiration and respect there. With Ndiaye gone, Grealish’s natural exuberance and creativity will be vital."

Tactically, what are you seeing from David Moyes so far this season?

Phil: "Pretty much the same as last season. He is using one striker – he has only got one in Thierno Barry – and the system is similar. Against Manchester United, Armstrong and James Garner provided the midfield base to allow Kieran Dewsbury-Hall, who has been an excellent signing – to roam further forward while Brennan Johnson, who Spurs fans know well, and Tyrique George provided the width."

"Everton signed Christian Norgaard from Arsenal in the summer to provide more midfield stability after the departure of Idrissa Gueye, but unfortunately the 32-year-old Dane has been injured and not figured yet. Interesting to see whether Grealish eventually claims the left flank place to leave George and Johnson battling for the right, but at least it is an area where Moyes has options having been left with a squad of only 18 senior outfield players."

Finally Phil, who should our fans look out for on Saturday?

Phil: "I’d say Jarrad Branthwaite. Towering central defender, powerful and quick with a big future if he can just stay fit. It was no co-incidence Everton’s season went into freefall after he was injured in the Merseyside derby against Liverpool at Hill Dickinson Stadium. If he can stay free from injury, Everton’s prospects this term will be much improved and there will be every chance he adds to his one England cap."

Select your XI to face Everton!