Everton are set to host Bournemouth in the fourth round of the FA Cup. The Toffees are looking to progress past this stage for the first time in three seasons. Last Word on Football brings you our Everton predicted lineup for the match at 3 pm on Saturday, February 8.
Everton Predicted Lineup Vs Bournemouth
How Everton Have Lined Up
Everton have only made two changes in their last three fixtures. The first change saw Guinea-Bissau striker Beto lead the line last time out against Leicester in place of the injured Dominic Calvert-Lewin. Behind the striker, Abdoulaye Doucoure is being played as an attacking midfielder. Iliman Ndiaye provides excitement out on the left wing, with Jesper Lindstrom playing a hybrid right midfielder-wingback role.
Read More: How Everton’s Defence Has Improved From Early Season Slump
The second change saw James Garner replace Orel Mangala in the base of midfield. Alongside them, Idrissa Gueye completes the double pivot. Jake O’Brien has earned his starting spot with recent performances, playing as a central right back. On the left Vitaliy Mykolenko has played as a left wing back. In the middle of the defence, James Tarkowski and Jarrad Branthwaite continue their partnership, which has seen Everton be one of the best defences in the Premier League over the last two seasons. Jordan Pickford has started every league game this season on his way to eight clean sheets.
Everton’s Recent Form and Tactics
On paper, the Toffees lineup in a 4-2-3-1 formation but it often shifts to a 5-2-3 in defence. The change sets up Ndiaye and Doucoure to play each side of the striker and allows for each to be available for counterattacks.
Read More: How Beto Could Turn Around The Faltering Everton Attack
There has been a rejuvenated focus on pressing under Moyes. Using the endurance of Gueye and Doucoure has forced more turnovers higher up the pitch. Another change is direct passing and playing players in behind. Beto’s two goals in their last match against Leicester were a prime example of their new intent.
Bournemouth are the only team in the Premier League with more long passes than the Toffees. Expect aerial duels around the ground to be a key factor in the outcome of this match.
Everton Injuries To Consider
Mangala has suffered an ACL injury that will see him return to his parent club Olympique Lyon. DCL has suffered another setback with a hamstring injury. Tim Iroegbunam has returned to the squad after a lengthy spell on the sideline.
Everton Predicted Lineup Vs Bournemouth
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
