Finally through the international break, we can get back to league play. This weekend we will see Everton host third place Manchester United at Goodison Park. Everton have fared well at home against United in recent years have won their last three home games against United and will look to continue that here.
Everton come into this match sitting seventh in the table and unbeaten in their last five league matches. With some key players likely to return to the starting lineup for Everton I’d look for a great game between these two sides.
Goalkeeper
After getting his first international start since the world cup last night and saving the United States from a potential blowout, Tim Howard will return and look to continue his form between the sticks for Everton.
Left Back
The youngster Brendan Galloway is still is great form and will continue in his left back role against Manchester United. His main competition at the moment, Bryan Oviedo, looked rusty last night versus the United States and won’t push Galloway out for the role.
Center Backs
Phil Jagielka was named stand-in captain for England against Lithuania and the Everton skipper isn’t going to lose his spot in this one. Martinez has said this week that he expects John Stones to be back for this game. If he’s healthy he’ll be in the lineup, if not we’ll likely once again see Ramiro Funes Mori get another runout next to Jags.
Right Back
Seamus Coleman saw a full 90 minute match for Ireland against Poland over the weekend and barring a training injury will feature on the right for Everton. Tyias Browning is likely to be on the bench to back up Coleman if necessary.
Defensive Midfield
Gareth Barry and James McCarthy remain Everton’s best options in the defensive midfield. The other option, Mo Besic is likely to miss out as he’s still recovering from the injury that forced him off against Chelsea.
Right Wing
Gerard Deulofeu didn’t have the best game against Liverpool as most of the buildup play was back to goal possession rather than through balls down the line. The Spaniard was able to shake this performance off and gathered three assists over the international break for Spain’s U-21 side. With the flair he provides, I would like to see Deulofeu get the start again on Saturday. If we don’t see Deulofeu here we will likely see Arouna Koné take the reins on the right.
Left Wing
Kevin Mirallas is now back from suspension, but he will likely have to prove himself before he’s allowed back into the starting XI. I think the selection here comes down to Steven Naismith and Arouna Koné. Of the two, I think Kone is the better option since he offer slightly more creativity than Naismith does. I would like to see Naismith come off the bench in the second half to provide an offensive spark if necessary.
Central Attacking Midfield
Ross Barkley will continue his role as Everton’s central attacking midfield. The Everton man has been in great form as of late and contributed a goal and an assist over the international break for England.
Forward
Romelu Lukaku will once again be the tip of the spear for Everton.
