Everton host Bournemouth in their second home game of the Premier League season. The Toffees are looking to get their first points after a disappointing opening two games. Last Word on Football brings you our Everton predicted lineup for the match that kicks off on Saturday, August 31.
Everton Predicted Lineup for Premier League Clash Against Bournemouth
How Everton Have Lined Up
Manager Sean Dyche has opted to stick with the players from last year’s squad rather than new transfers to start the league season. Jordan Pickford has started both games in the net. Two former Burnley players James Tarkowski and Michael Keane have been the first-choice centre-back pairing. Vitaliy Mykolenko was named alongside Ashley Young in the wing-back role for the first game of the season. Academy player Roman Dixon made his first-team debut at right-back last time out against Tottenham.
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Idrissa Gueye and Tim Iroegbunam were the only two fit central midfielders to start the season. They have started in the double pivot behind Abdoulaye Doucoure in the attacking midfielder role. Jack Harrison and Dwight McNeil have been the wingers in both league games to start the season.
Dominic Calvert-Lewin has been the starting striker but faces tough competition from Beto. The Portuguese striker scored in The Toffees midweek win over Doncaster Rovers in the Carabao Cup.
Everton’s Recent Form and Tactics
Everton are currently last in the Premier League table after two matches. They have conceded seven goals without finding the back of the net. Dyche’s preferred 4-2-3-1 formation hasn’t provided the same defensive stability as last season.
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The Toffees have also faltered when going forward. The team managed only two shots on target over their first two league games. Their long ball and high press system has failed to create any notable chances. This is a continuation from last season where they scored 40 goals; only last-placed Sheffield United scored less.
Everton and Bournemouth have attempted the most long balls in the Premier League this season. This could play into the home team’s advantage with their heavy reliance on their ariel dominance to create chances.
Everton Injuries To Consider
In this week’s press conference, Dyche outlined the fitness of multiple players in the squad. Seamus Coleman and James Garner played in the midweek match and are available for selection once again after early injuries. Jarrad Branthwaite, Youseff Chermiti and Nathan Patterson are all still rehabbing their ongoing injuries.
Everton’s Predicted Lineup
GK: Jordan Pickford
RB: Seamus Coleman
CB: Michael Keane
CB: James Tarkowski
LB: Vitaliy Mykolenko
CM: Idrissa Gueye
CM: Tim Iroegbunam
CAM: Iliman Ndiaye
LM: Dwight McNeil
RM: Jack Harrison
ST: Dominic Calvert-Lewin
