Everton are gradually developing into a well-oiled machine under Ronald Koeman and it is happening faster than the fans or the club anticipated. Yes, the Dutchman was coming in with an excellent reputation built during his time at Southampton and he was regarded in the footballing fraternity as one who would be emerging amongst the best in the business in the years to come. But, the Toffees know how difficult it is to come out of the pattern of being content with a Top 8 finish year in, year out without the club even going out of their way to do anything different.
Yes, they might well end up around the 7th spot even this year but the signs are there for all to see. The start was solid and composed. There were a few blips in the run but they have looked far more threatening as the season has gone on. He has been backed to the hilt by the board and the owner and Koeman has been liberal in his approach. He has not shied away from making the occasional splurge and in the process, he is building quite the team for the present and for the future.
The transformation continued in the January transfer window as well and although there weren’t a lot of new guys coming in, the change has been subtle and with a couple of additions in the coming window, we will see an Everton side challenging for the Top 4 pretty soon. And it won’t seem like an aberration, more importantly.
PREDICTED EVERTON LINE-UP WITH THEIR NEW SIGNINGS (4-2-3-1)
DEFENCE
Marten Stekelenburg might earn a recall in the long run but the goalkeeping situation is not yet sorted at Goodison Park. We might see a surprise signing in the summer as well. Coleman will be at right-back with Williams and Funes Mori forming the central defensive pairing. Leighton Baines is a certainty at left-back.
MIDFIELD
Morgan Schneiderlin is here to stay and Koeman will look to re-ignite the successful partnership with his former protégé. Idrissa Gueye has been brilliant for them and will be a long-term partner of the former Manchester United man in midfield, in what will preferably be a double pivot. In the No.10 role, it is Ross Barkley who will look to cement his place.
ATTACK
With Bolasie’s injury, the plans have gone a bit haywire for the gaffer as far as the options on the flanks are concerned and the departure of Deulofeu has further shortened his options. But Lennon, Lookman, Valencia and Mirallas all provide competent options and Mirallas is nailed on for a spot with Valencia and Lennon looking good for the other spot. Romelu Lukaku is nailed on for the striker’s role.
