Everton put in yet another sorry performance against Burnley last weekend. Though they have nothing to play for, showing some effort on the pitch is the least the fans expect and they barely showed that against the Clarets.
This weekend, the Toffees will host Brighton and will want to secure all three points in order to improve their current 11th position in the table.
Everton – Team News
January signing Eliaquim Mangala was ruled out for the rest of the season, so the suspension to Ashley Williams means Allardyce’s resources at the back are stretched.
Everton Lineup
Defence
Jordon Pickford will be starting between the sticks for the Toffees as the young lad has been impressive so far and needs to play regularly in order to prepare for the FIFA World Cup in the summer.
The erratic Michael Keane will start alongside Phil Jagielka. The captain hasn’t had much of playing time this season, and Ashley Williams’ suspension is an opportunity for him to deliver some consistent performances.
Seamus Coleman will start as the right-back and he will look to provide better stability and balance between defence and attack on the flank. Leighton Baines could be back in the left-back role for the Toffees.
Midfield
Tom Davies and Idrissa Gueye will play as the two defensive midfielders in this formation. Both these players are good runners and link up Everton’s defence with their forward line. Davies, in particular, has been handed over the ball-carrying responsibilities, His passing and composure in the other half would be key.
Gueye is more of a ball winner and likes to his tackling and intercepting abilities will be important. His tenacity, coupled with Davies’ close control and passing remain important for Everton.
Attack
Cenk Tosun will lead the line and would look to add up to his goals tally this season. The Turk has been poor ever since his move to Merseyside but he will take more time to adapt to the rigours and demands of the Premier League.
Gylfi Sigurdsson will play behind him and will hope to have a good last few months of a torrid personal season so far. Theo Walcott will add more pace, and will provide a decent attacking outlet from the right for the Toffees.
Wayne Rooney has been given rest recently, but might return for this match. Upon his return, the former Manchester United skipper will interchange roles with Sigurdsson as both the playmakers will look to open up Brighton’s defence.