Everton manager David Moyes has admitted that Chelsea's decision to start Jorrel Hato instead of Pep Chavarria disrupted his side's tactical preparations during their 2-0 Premier League defeat on Saturday.

According to a report by Football London on Sunday, 18 October 2026, Moyes had expected Chavarria to feature at left-back and selected Merlin Röhl on the right side of Everton's attack to exploit the anticipated threat.

However, Chavarria's absence meant Everton faced Hato, whose performance helped Chelsea secure their second consecutive league victory under Xabi Alonso.

Pedro Neto was the decisive figure at the Hill Dickinson Stadium, scoring shortly after half-time before completing his brace in the 90th minute.

Chelsea also recorded their first Premier League clean sheet of the season, providing Alonso with further encouragement as he continues to implement his tactical approach.

Explaining Everton's expectations before the match, Moyes said: "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."

Röhl struggled to make the expected impact and was the first Everton player substituted, while Hato's attacking contribution proved particularly important for Chelsea's opening goal.

The Dutch defender used his pace and strength to advance down the left flank before delivering the ball that eventually reached Neto, who found the net to give the visitors the lead.

Hato's display has now created a selection decision for Alonso, with Chavarria expected to compete for a starting position once available.

Chelsea face a demanding schedule, with a Carabao Cup fourth-round tie against Liverpool followed by a Premier League meeting with Manchester United next weekend.

Chavarria's attacking statistics suggest he could offer more consistent delivery from the left, having recorded stronger figures for crosses, key passes, progressive carries and touches in the opposition's penalty area than Hato.

However, Hato's performance against Everton demonstrated that he can provide attacking energy while offering Alonso another option when defensive stability is required.