After a rather forgettable season under Sam Allardyce, Everton have now appointed Marco Silva as their new manager and have already started planning for life next season. But the main even in Russia will keep most of the fans occupied, with a number of star players in the squad at Goodison Park actively travelling to play in the World Cup.
The Toffees do not have a star-studded lineup but do have players who are crucial for their respective countries in Russia. But who will impress in this edition? Here are 3 Everton players to look out for in the 2018 FIFA World Cup this year:
#3 Jordan Pickford (England)
Gareth Southgate decided not to select Joe Hart for the World Cup and has to chose between Pickford and Jack Butland for the role under the bar in his first team.
The Stoke City man will be low on confidence, which could see Pickford preferred for the group stages where they are drawn with Belgium, Panama and Tunisia.
He is easily one of the best in his role in England and if he can put in some decent performances, he will certainly turn into a hero for the Three Lions.
#2 Gylfi Sigurdsson (Iceland)
Though not too effective in the league for Everton, Sigurdsson is still one of the best playmakers in England and will be crucial for his national side in Russia.
Iceland will face Argentine, Croatian and Nigeria in the group stages and have a tough route to the knockout phases but the 28-year old, who will make his debut in a World Cup in Russia, has what it takes to help his side go head to head with the other teams.
He missed a large chunk of the second half of the season with an injury but is now back to full fitness and will hope to put on a show for his country and his fans.
#1 Idrissa Gana Gueye (Senegal)
African side Senegal could be real dark horses in this competition. They may not be equipped enough to go all the way but Senegal does have players who can compete with the best in Russia. And Everton’s Gueye is another indication of the quality they have in their first team.
Alongside the likes of Chiekhou Kouyate and Alfred NDiaye, both of who have been in decent form, Senegal will be a force to reckon with in the World Cup and the Everton midfielder will have to play a crucial role in getting them past the best teams in the world.
Their attack is pretty impressive and if Gueye can be the rock in midfield, Senegal could spring a surprise or two.