Predicted Everton Lineup To Face Hajduk Split In UEFA Europa League Playoffs
Everton will look to confirm their participation in the group stages of the UEFA Europa League, when they take on Croatian side Hajduk Split in the second leg of the playoff stages at the Stadion Poljud on Thursday night.
The Toffees come into the game with a 2-0 lead from the first-leg, thanks to goals from summer signing Michael Keane and midfielder Idrissa Gueye. Manager Ronald Koeman will be keen on finishing the job off in a clinical manner and get through to the main competitions. The Merseyside club will be going into Friday’s encounter on the back of a 1-1 draw against Manchester City in the Premier League.
Team News
There are doubts over the possibility of striker Sandro Ramirez being available for the contest due to a heel injury. Ross Barkley, Yannick Bolasie, Ramiro Funes Mori and Seamus Coleman are the confirmed absentees for the Toffees.
Manager: Ronald Koeman
Formation: 4-2-3-1
Jordan Pickford (GK)
The summer signing has started his debut season on a strong note. Expect him to continue in a similar fashion on Thursday night.
Cuco Martina (RB)
The former Southampton man has been the preferred option at right-back in the European competition so far. Unlikely that it will change for the second leg.
Michael Keane (CB)
One of the goalscorers from the first leg, Keane has made all the right noises in his short time with the club. A definite starter.
Ashley Williams (CB)
Lending the seniority and experience in the backline will be Ashley Williams. The Welshman has struck up a good rapport with Keane already and expect it to keep getting better with each passing game.
Leighton Baines (LB)
The 32-year old Englishman is as consistent as they come and is a sure-shot starter at left-back for the Merseyside outfit.
Morgan Schneiderlin (CM)
The Frenchman will not be available for the weekend game after being sent off against City. Should start on Thursday.
Muhamed Besic (CM)
With Schneiderlin absent for the Chelsea encounter at the weekend, Koeman might want to give Besic some game time in order to get him ready for Sunday.
Dominic Calvert-Lewin (RW)
The youngster was one of the brightest spots in the Everton team against City on Monday. Should keep his place in the starting XI.
Davy Klaassen (CAM)
Did not start the game against City on Monday night. Expect him to return to the playing XI, with Tom Davies likely to sit this one out.
Gylfi Sigurdsson (LW)
The club-record signing could be given his first start for the Toffees on Thursday night. Will be intent on hitting the ground running.
Wayne Rooney (ST)
Has started off his second coming at Everton with two goals in two league games. Koeman will be hoping that the English legend carries the form into this European game as well.