Barry Horne: Arteta injury is so cruel on dignified David Moyes

David Moyes, to his credit, has never complained once despite the myriad misfortunes which have beset his squad this season.

The injury to Mikel Arteta, however, is the most galling problem yet.

The player had just emerged from an indifferent spell in his career to produce the kind of sparkling form which led to Bill Kenwright christening him La visión de Oro.

That indifferent spell could have been down to a number of factors - the niggling injury he suffered, possible rumours of a move back to Spain - that inexplicable loss of edge which can affect all players.

The fact is Mikel had come through it and was playing really well, which is what makes the timing so frustrating.

The only crumb of comfort for David Moyes is that Steven Pienaar looks set for a return today.

Despite the worries, despite the problems, we are still coping.

I have seen West Brom several times this season and I'm confident we still have what it takes to secure three more points at Goodison Park this afternoon.

On the occasions I've watched the Baggies their defending, quite frankly, has been appalling.

They came up with a reputation as the best football team in the Championship and they have lived up to that mantle at times this season.

But they lack threat up front and Jagielka and Lescott should be able to handle their attacking efforts, while their defending should give plenty of encouragement to Tim Cahill, Jo and co.

Victor Anichebe's injury, however, is a huge blow for the lad.

Kevin Nolan's tackle was particularly nasty and while he received publicity for his apology afterwards - you don't apologise unless you have done something wrong - and there's no doubt his challenge was a bad one.

It was only a few weeks ago that David Moyes said he was hoping to give him a run in the team - but clearly that can't happen now.

The only positive way of looking at the whole unsavoury situation is that Victor can consider himself fortunate not to be sidelined for the same period of time as the unfortunate Arteta.