AliousEverton’s challenging start to the season continues as they prepare to host Southampton, a team facing similar struggles, in the third round of the EFL Cup at Goodison Park.
This match presents a rare opportunity for the Blues to find some respite amidst their difficult run.
Regarding team news, the situation remains largely unchanged from the weekend. Vitaliy Mykolenko’s status is uncertain after being substituted at halftime due to illness. Jarrad Branthwaite and Nathan Patterson are progressing in their recovery but are not yet ready to return. Armando Broja and Youssef Chermiti remain sidelined with longer-term injuries. Seamus Coleman is likely to miss out again due to an injury sustained during international duty.
The available squad for Everton includes a mix of regular starters and squad players across all positions.
In goal,
Jordan Pickford, Asmir Begovic, and Joao Virginia provide options.
The defense could feature players like…
Michael Keane, James Tarkowski, Jake O’Brien, Mason Holgate, and Ashley Young.
Midfield options include….
Abdoulaye Doucoure, Idrissa Gueye, James Garner, and new signing Orel Mangala.
The attacking positions could be filled by players such as…..
Dwight McNeil, Jack Harrison, Iliman Ndiaye, Jesper Lindstrom, Dominic Calvert-Lewin, and Beto.
Regarding tactics and formation, manager Sean Dyche is expected to field a strong lineup, similar to his approach in the previous round against Doncaster. Jordan Pickford might start again, although there’s a possibility that Joao Virginia could be given an opportunity, especially considering Pickford’s recent form.
In defense,
Jake O’Brien is likely to get a rare start, possibly partnering with James Tarkowski. The full-back positions present some questions, with Ashley Young potentially filling in for Mykolenko if the latter is unavailable.
The right-back spot could see James Garner deputizing again, although there’s hope among fans to see young Roman Dixon get another chance.
The midfield is expected to feature new signing Orel Mangala making his first start for Everton, likely replacing Gueye. James Garner or Tyler Iroegbunam could partner him, with Abdoulaye Doucoure potentially getting some minutes after being out of the team recently.
In the wide areas, Iliman Ndiaye might get another opportunity to impress, while Jesper Lindstrom could be given a chance to show his capabilities after a quiet start to his Everton career.
This would mean both Dwight McNeil and Jack Harrison, Dyche’s preferred wingers, might be rested.
Up front, Beto is a strong candidate to lead the line, although this isn’t certain.
The predicted starting lineup, with likelihood of starting rated out of 10, includes:
Joao Virginia (6/10) in goal;
Roman Dixon (6/10),
James Tarkowski (7/10),
Jake O’Brien (8/10),
and Ashley Young (8/10)
In defense;
Orel Mangala (8/10), James Garner (7/10), and Abdoulaye Doucoure (7/10)
In midfield;
Iliman Ndiaye (6/10) and Jesper Lindstrom (6/10)
on the wings; and Beto (6/10) as the striker.
The bench is likely to feature a mix of regular starters and squad players, providing Dyche with options to change the game if needed. This match represents an important opportunity for Everton to build some momentum and confidence as they navigate through a challenging period in their season.
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