Everton host Brighton at Goodison Park, in what will be the historical stadium’s last season. The Toffees are looking to start the new season better than the last, where they failed to win until matchday six. Last Word on Football brings you our Everton predicted lineup for the match on August 17.
A Toffee Rejuvenation: Everton Predicted Lineup Vs Brighton, August 17
How Everton Have Lined Up Recently
Everton’s last preseason fixture against AS Roma was the closest we have seen to a first-choice selection since last season. New signing Jake O’Brien lined up with veteran James Tarkowski in the centre-back positions. Vitaliy Mykolenko made a return from a knock received during the Euros to reclaim his left-back position. Club captain Seamus Coleman started on the right side of defence.
Idrissa Gueye was paired with Tim Iroegbunam at the base of the midfield. Abdoulaye Doucoure was playing his favoured second striker / attacking midfielder role in front of the duo.
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Out wide, Jack Harrison and Dwight McNeil were in their favoured positions. The wingers were the top two in assists for Everton last season.
Up front was Dominic Calvert-Lewin, who will look to improve on last season’s disappointing start. The striker scored just seven goals in the league and according to Opta was the most underperforming player in front of the net.
Everton’s Recent Form and Tactics
Everton traditionally line up in a 4-2-3-1 formation. This will often switch to a 4-4-2 when defending. Abdoulaye Doucoure, playing the attacking midfielder role, will join the striker to press the opposition defence.
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The Toffees are a high-pressing team: they were ranked fifth for tackles in the final third last season. They face a Seagulls team that had the most touches in their defensive third last season, something that Everton will look to exploit.
Everton Injuries To Consider
In this week’s press conference, manager Sean Dyche detailed the injuries facing the squad to start the season. Jarrad Branthwaite, Nathan Patterson, Seamus Coleman and James Garner are all carrying minor injuries that will see them miss the opening match. Youssef Chermiti is continuing his recovery from a small surgery but will be out of action for an extended period.
Everton’s Predicted Lineup
GK: Jordan Pickford
RB: Ashley Young
CB: James Tarkowski
CB: Jake O’Brien
LB: Vitaliy Mykolenko
CM: Idrissa Gueye
CM: Abdoulaye Doucoure
CAM: Iliman N’Diaye
LM: Dwight McNeil
RM: Jesper Lindstrøm
ST: Dominic Calvert-Lewin
