Everton manager David Moyes has confirmed that on-loan winger Jack Grealish is expected to miss the remainder of the season due to a stress fracture in his foot, which will likely require surgery. Grealish, who is on a season-long loan from Manchester City, suffered the injury during Everton's 1-0 victory over Aston Villa on January 18. This unfortunate development is a significant blow to both the player and the club, potentially ruling out Grealish from England's World Cup squad this summer.

Moyes conveyed his disappointment, stating on Friday, "We believe he's probably going to need surgery, but that's still not absolutely confirmed, but it probably rules him out for the rest of the season, yes." He further elaborated on Grealish's value, describing him as "such an important part, he's a big character, big experience for us. We'll miss him. He's done a lot of really good things for us." Grealish, 30, had been enjoying a successful spell at Everton, recording two goals and six assists in 22 appearances, and consistently creating numerous chances after a frustrating period at Manchester City.

Regarding the ongoing January transfer window, Moyes indicated that while Everton is actively seeking opportunities, significant business is unlikely. "I'd like to say we're out there looking, which I think I've said in every press conference," he noted. "I would say it's probably less than likely than likely... [In] January you can find players, it's not to say you can't, but I think we're seeing this window becoming quite a difficult one for a lot of teams."

Addressing the team's goal-scoring situation, Moyes highlighted the recent progress of summer signing Thierno Barry. Barry, who took 17 appearances to score his first goal for the club, has now netted four goals in his last six games, including vital contributions like a game-winning goal at Aston Villa and a goal that secured a point against Leeds. Despite this improvement, Moyes still expects more from the 23-year-old French forward, commenting, "He has to keep progressing, but how he's playing at the moment wouldn't be enough to satisfy me. He'll have to play much better, score more goals."

Finally, Moyes discussed the immediate future of 19-year-old Harrison Armstrong. Armstrong has made five appearances for the Toffees since being recalled from his loan spell at Preston earlier in the month, a move initially made to cover for absentees. Moyes confirmed he is in regular contact with Preston's management but will not make a final decision on Armstrong's return to Deepdale until after the upcoming match against Brighton. He praised the young player's performance, remarking, "He's not looked out of place in the Premier League. That's the biggest compliment I could give Harrison."