Everton face a tricky and potentially difficult fixture away at Southampton amidst concerns that their start might well have been glossed over due to the quality of opponents rather than that of their own displays. Ronald Koeman would have been mildly surprised with the way his team embarked on an almost faultless run, dissecting opponents and lording their lofty position in the initial weeks. And one wonders whether a sense of complacency might have crept into the players who were absolutely thrilled with the results especially after a despondent year with the gullible and unrealistically idealist Roberto Martinez.
But Everton still have the opportunity to stem the run of disappointing results and they have the ideal man to begin their resurrection in a proper manner. Koeman doesn’t expect a struggling Swansea City to escape with a point from the Goodison Park and will urge his talented squad to get their act together.
Southampton will be a tough affair, especially in their own backyard but the Toffees will be looking to be the superior side on the day. They have a genuine match-winner in Lukaku and a host of game-changing players to support him. It will be an interesting battle between two well-matched sides.
PREDICTED EVERTON XI VS SOUTHAMPTON (4-2-3-1)
DEFENCE
Marten Stekelenburg is nailed on as the keeper and will be looking to contribute to a clean sheet and subsequently a positive result for his team. Seamus Coleman will look to carry on his good form and keep the full-back of the opposition on his toes.
He seems to be rediscovering his attacking form which made him such a threat a couple of seasons back. Phil Jagielka and Ashley Williams will look to notch up a clean sheet and keep the versatile Saints at bay. Leighton Baines will try to lend his experience and expertise from the left-back slot.
MIDFIELD
Idrissa Gueye is a certain starter in the double pivot while Koeman can realistically look at a return for Gareth Barry in place of McCarthy alongside Gueye. Those two had hit it off well initially and there is a potential for a solid partnership to be formed in midfield. Ross Barkley will be looking to lend creativity and drive from the No.10 position.
ATTACK
Bolasie is likely to line up on the left-flank while Lennon might keep his place on the right-side. Both Kevin Mirallas and Gerard Deulofeu offer alternatives for the flank roles. Romelu Lukaku will lead the line once again and will be Southampton’s biggest concern in the box.
