The story so far
Everton have had a disappointing season so far. After their good start to the season with a win against Stoke and a draw against the gritty Manchester City side away from home and a successful transfer window, haven’t been able to kick on.
They lost to Chelsea and Spurs in the weeks after and the manner in which they lost would have hurt the fans. Their fixtures are competitive and rushing, all at once, but more is expected from a quality side like Everton.
The Toffees were on the wrong end of the result in mid-week too, losing 3-0 to Atalanta. They have struggled to find the back of net as they have scored just 2 goals so far this season and lie 16th in the league table, somewhere they surely do not belong. They face Manchester United this weekend and Mourinho’s side will provide a stern test.
Latest team news
Morgan Schneiderlin looks to start again and return to the former club and so does Wayne Rooney. Coleman, Barkley, Funes Mori and Bolasie are all out. Koeman needs to settle into one formation and not chop and change too much in order to maintain the balance.
Predicted lineup (4-3-2-1)
GK: Jordan Pickford
Sure starter, a hero for Sunderland last season, he has made quite some stops this season. The baby-faced keeper will look to do the same and save his team in crunch situations.
RB: Cuco Martina
Defensive improvement required, but as Coleman is out and a 3-man defence isn’t working, he needs to pull his socks up. Offensively, he is dangerous.
CB: Michael Keane
A silver lining in Everton’s dark cloud at the moment, he has fit in well and will look to give his best against Manchester United.
CB: Ashley Williams
Strongest on the team and needs to blend with Keane soon as a formidable defensive pair. Has been inconsistent.
LB: Leighton Baines
Very aware of the happenings, does his defensive duties well and crosses the ball extremely well. He is on all set piece duties.
RCM: Morgan Schneiderlin
He will look to provide some cover, sit in front of the back four and direct the play. Very good in the air.
CM: Tom Davies
Quick, swift and agile, the youngster runs down the pitch in style and can be punishing if he’s on song. A man with maturity above his numbers.
LCM: Idrissa Gueye
A ball winner, highly hard working. Gets into good positions while attacking too.
RW: Wayne Rooney
He has got nothing to lose, so he might as well enjoy himself and keep his early form going.
LW/CF: Gylfi Sigurdsson
Will start but has to start firing from some of his cylinders. Creative, he is unstoppable if he decides to run the show.
ST: Dominic Calvert-Lewin
Must be preferred over Sandro, who has been poor. This kid has a big heart, tests the defenders in all situations and needs to spend some time out in the middle.
