Everton are set to host cross-town rivals Liverpool in the final Merseyside derby at Goodison Park. Last Word on Football brings you our Everton predicted lineup for the match that kicks off at 8 p.m. on Wednesday, February 12.
Everton Predicted Lineup In Last Ever Goodison Derby
How Everton Have Lined Up
Everton have only rotated their league line-up through injury in manager David Moyes’ second tenure at the club. The first change was Dominic Calvert-Lewin making way for Beto. The striker took his chance, scoring two goals against Leicester.
On the left wing, Iliman Ndiaye has been one of Everton’s best players, often playing in an inverted role. Jesper Lindstrom has started in a right midfield-wingback hybrid position in recent league matches.
In the middle Abdoulaye Doucoure is played as an attacking midfielder in front of a double pivot. Often that double pivot involved Idrissa Gueye and Orel Mangala, James Garner has replaced the latter recently due to injury.
Read More: How Everton’s Defence Has Improved From Early Season Slump
James Tarkowski and Jarrad Branthwaite are the centrepiece of the Everton defence, helping them to eight league clean sheets. Jake O’Brien lines up at right-back but is often shifted to a more central role throughout the game. While on the left Vitaliy Mykolenko has been given more freedom to play a wingback role.
Everton’s Recent Form and Tactics
The Toffees have won their last three Premier League games, they now sit nine points above the relegation zone.
Their attack has improved immensely under Moyes. This is in part due to a tactics shift since his arrival. Everton now play with a fluid 4-2-3-1 system that turns into a 5-2-2-1 in defence.
Read More: How Beto Could Turn Around The Faltering Everton Attack
In this match, they will primarily focus on their counter-attacking abilities. Their primary outlet is Ndiaye, who occupies an inside forward role while they defend.
His ability on the ball opens up the wide areas for Mykolenko to bomb down the left flank and look for crosses.
Everton Injuries To Consider
Tim Iroegbunam has returned from a long-term injury but is yet to see significant minutes and will likely be on the bench for this fixture. While Armando Broja and Youssef Chermiti both have long-term injuries, the former is likely out for the season.
Everton’s Predicted Lineup
GK: Jordan Pickford
RB: Jake O’Brien
CB: Jarrad Branthwaite
CB: James Tarkowski
LB: Vitaliy Mykolenko
CM: James Garner
CM: Idrissa Gueye
CAM: Abdoulaye Doucoure
LM: Iliman Ndiaye
RM: Jesper Lindstrom
ST: Beto
