Predicted Everton Line-up To Face West Bromwich Albion In The Premier League
Everton travel to the Hawthorns to pile more misery on West Bromwich Albion on Boxing day. The Toffees have been unbeaten under Sam Allardyce and have forgotten what it is like to look downwards once he took charge. On the other hand, Alan Pardew is still in search of his first win as Baggies boss. They haven’t been able to get themselves out of danger and are languishing at 19th place.
Their only two victories came in the opening two weekends of the league. The Toffees have a great opportunity to crush West Brom and keep moving forward, by sticking to the basics and holding their compact shape. Big Sam’s defence has been one of the best in the league since his arrival, as they have kept 4 clean sheets. A positive for him is that they have beaten West Brom away from home in their previous three meetings against them.
Team News
Idrissa Gueye will be sidelined due to a hamstring pull that he suffered in the match against Chelsea. Wayne Rooney was out as he caught flu, but will face a late fitness test and is mostly good to go tomorrow. The former England boss claimed that Jagielka will be rested.
It will be interesting to see if Mason Holgate or Ashley Williams start, as they too missed out due to flu. The long-term casualties are Stekelenburg, Ross Barkley, Leighton Baines, Seamus Coleman and Ramiro Funes Mori.
Formation: 4-2-3-1
Defence
Jordan Pickford has been the first choice for Everton this season and should start in goal.
Ashley Williams‘ heroics in the box, especially with the blocks and his timing of challenges will be important in the middle. A fabulous summer addition, Keane will be his partner. The pair has been excellent and well organised since the arrival of Big Sam.
The full-back spots should be occupied by two consistent performers, Cuco Martina and Jonjoe Kenny.
Midfield
Morgan Schneiderlin should play in central midfield. He is very good in the air, reads the passes quickly and safeguards the ball quite well. Tom Davies could play alongside him. He is comparatively more advanced, creative and aggressive in his style of play. The teenager likes high pressing and doesn’t shy away from sticking his foot out to make a tackle.
Gylfi Sigurdsson‘s boost in form has been a major cause for their uplift. He should play down the left. Of late, he has really got going, be it with his rhythm or range of passing. As Big Sam focuses a lot on set-pieces, the Icelander, who is a spectacular deal ball specialist, will be an important factor.
Wayne Rooney will play as the No. 10. His disguised runs into the box have damaged defences this season.
Aaron Lennon’s pace and crossing will feature down the right flank for Everton.
Attack
Dominic Calvert-Lewin should start up front. He has a never say die attitude despite having had some periods in previous games where he was completely isolated. Forget about the finishing and aerial abilities; the youngster just keeps working hard, pushing the defenders and is always under their noses.