David Moyes warns Everton players to brace for Sunderland storm

The Toffees suffered a frustrating defeat in similar circumstances earlier this season, when they were beaten by Leeds United on the opening weekend. Moyes' side struggled to cope with the intensity at Elland Road before a late penalty condemned them to defeat, and the Everton boss is determined to ensure his players do not repeat those mistakes.

"I think we'll go into Sunderland knowing there will be that raucous crowd on a Monday night," Moyes said. "They've just come back from a great victory against Chelsea, so we have to expect that and we will do. We have to go to Sunderland and believe that we can pick up the points."

Sunderland, promoted as play-off winners last season, have made an impressive return to the Premier League under Regis Le Bris. Their home form has been particularly strong, and they will be looking to build on last week's 2-1 victory over Chelsea.

For Moyes, the fixture brings a personal twist. The Scot managed Sunderland during the 2016-17 season and will return to Wearside with goalkeeper Jordan Pickford, who came through the ranks at the club before joining Everton in 2017.

"Our away form at the start of this season has not been as good as we'd have liked," Moyes admitted. "But when you think that we've been away to Manchester City and Liverpool, you've got to wait until there's a bigger sample size before we judge that."

Everton will travel without Nathan Patterson and Jarrad Branthwaite, who have both undergone surgery, but Moyes is optimistic about the rest of his squad. "Patto has had a small procedure on his groin, so he's obviously not available. We've got a couple of knocks and bruises, but hopefully we'll be okay," he added.

Everton currently sit mid-table, while Sunderland are looking to continue their strong start and claim another major scalp under the lights.