Everton manager David Moyes has acknowledged that Chelsea’s decision to start Jorrel Hato at left-back instead of Pep Chavarria disrupted his side’s tactical preparations ahead of their 2-0 Premier League defeat on Saturday.

The Scottish coach revealed that Everton had anticipated Chavarria would occupy the position, and his team’s approach was developed with the Chelsea defender’s attacking style in mind. However, Hato’s inclusion presented a different challenge and forced Everton to deal with an opponent whose qualities differed from those they had prepared to face.

Moyes explained that Merlin Röhl was selected on the right side of Everton’s attack because the coaching staff believed his attributes would be particularly useful against Chavarria. The unexpected change meant the planned matchup did not develop as anticipated.

“We actually expected Pep Chavarria to play at left-back. We thought with his attacking work, and what was required, the person who we thought would be best to work would be Merlin Rohl in that position,” Moyes said.

The adjustment ultimately failed to produce the desired outcome for Everton, who struggled to make a significant impact against Chelsea’s defensive setup. Röhl was unable to deliver the expected influence and became the first player substituted by Moyes as the home side attempted to change the course of the contest.

Hato, meanwhile, made effective use of the opportunity, contributing to Chelsea’s attacking play while helping maintain defensive stability. His involvement proved particularly important in the build-up to the opening goal, as he advanced down the left flank before delivering the ball that eventually reached Pedro Neto.

Neto broke the deadlock shortly after half-time and returned in the 90th minute to complete his brace, securing Chelsea’s second consecutive Premier League victory under manager Xabi Alonso. The result also gave the visitors their first league clean sheet of the season, providing further encouragement as Alonso continues to shape the team according to his tactical preferences.

Hato’s performance has strengthened his case for a regular role at left-back, offering Alonso another option as competition for places intensifies. Although Chavarria remains a potential contender for the position, the Dutch defender demonstrated that he can contribute in advanced areas without compromising the team’s defensive structure.

Chavarria’s attacking statistics could still work in his favour when he becomes available for selection. Figures cited in the report indicate that he has produced stronger numbers in areas including crosses, key passes, progressive carries and touches inside the opposition penalty area. Those qualities may appeal to Alonso when Chelsea need additional creativity and forward movement from the left flank.

Nevertheless, Hato’s display against Everton highlighted the value of having different profiles available in the same position. His performance gave the Chelsea manager greater flexibility when choosing a lineup suited to a particular opponent.

Chelsea now face a demanding run of fixtures, starting with a Carabao Cup fourth-round meeting with Liverpool before their Premier League clash against Manchester United next weekend. Maintaining their recent momentum will be a priority as Alonso seeks to build consistency.

For Moyes, the defeat illustrated how an unexpected team selection can complicate carefully prepared plans. Everton will need to improve their execution and ability to adapt during matches as they look to respond in their upcoming fixtures.