Everton Lunchtime Round-Up, Saturday 31st October 2026: John Brooks Named Referee for Winless Newcastle Trip

Everton's trip to Newcastle United on Monday night has thrown up an unwanted bit of history, with John Brooks appointed as referee for the clash - a man under whom the Blues have never managed a Premier League win (Read Everton). It's not just the first team in action against the Magpies either, as the U18s are also taking on Newcastle's academy side at Little Benton this Saturday morning (ToffeeWeb).

There's a reminder of Everton's long wait for a major trophy doing the rounds too, after David Moyes' side reached the Carabao Cup quarter-finals. ESPN UK have highlighted that Everton remain the only one of the current 92 league clubs yet to lift that particular drought-related stat, which has resurfaced following the cup run (Read Everton). Staying with the cup, James Garner has been giving his verdict on the competition, suggesting the Blues have a "real chance" as well as speaking about the team's goal threat (EvertonFC.com).

On the playing side, there's debate over the form of Brennan Johnson and Tyler Dibling, with the Liverpool Echo questioning whether either forward has really looked like a typical David Moyes signing as the pair compete for the right-wing spot (Liverpool Echo). Meanwhile, on-loan man Jack Grealish has been in the headlines this week after a breach of club discipline, with the Echo running a poll asking fans what Everton should do with him, including whether he should be signed permanently (Liverpool Echo).

Away from team news, Goodison... sorry, Hill Dickinson Stadium, has its Enchanted Lights display on offer, with the club reminding supporters it's the last chance to save 20% on tickets (EvertonFC.com).

This round-up is written with the help of AI, using only the day's headlines from the publishers credited above. Each point links to the original report — tap the source name to read it in full.