David Moyes has urged his defence to combat the threat posed by Romelu Lukaku and shackle the frontman from the first whistle.
Saturday’s game at Goodison Park sees Sunderland strive to bounce back to winning ways following a two-week break from Premier League action, with their last outing ending in defeat to Southampton.
The occasion also marks David Moyes’ return to Merseyside where he guided the Toffees from the lower echelons of the top flight to the UEFA Champions League.
And speaking ahead of the game, the Scot admitted Lukaku must be stopped before reflecting on his time at the club.
“Romelu Lukaku is a really good player, an old fashioned number nine, which Everton are famed for, and he certainly fits that bill.
“We need to do everything we possibly can to stop him because he’s a real handful.
“I have incredible memories of the place,” continued Moyes. “I go back knowing I had a great chairman and people around me who were very loyal.
“I had some great days at Goodison with the supporters, but I want to go back there and win, and win for Sunderland.
“We need the three points and we have to try and get them.”
