Everton are set to clash with Liverpool for their third-round FA Cup fixture at Anfield. A much-awaited derby between two powerhouses who are hellbent on toppling the other and progress further into the competition.
The Toffees are coming off a disappointing 0-2 loss to Manchester United in their opening game of the year. They were completely outclassed by Jose Mourinho’s men and have fallen 3 points behind Leicester City in the 9th spot of the points table. Sam Allardyce did field a well-rotated squad with Oumar Niasse, Nikola Vlasic and Mason Holgate.
After heavily investing in the summer transfer window the fans at Goodison Park expected their side to match strides with the likes of Manchester United, Manchester City and Chelsea. But instead, they had one of the worst starts to their Premier League season in decades.
They have a strong enough squad to win some sort of silverware this season if not the league title. This matchup is a crucial turning point for the Toffees going forward.
Sam Allardyce is expected to field his men in the 4-2-3-1 formation.
Defence
Maarten Stekelenburg is still nursing a groin injury and is not fit enough to appear in this fixture. Jordan Pickford might just get the nod judging by the strength of the opponents.
Jonjoe Kenny is a predicted starter ahead of Holgate in the right back position. The 20-year-old has received high praises from the manager.
With Leighton Baines still injured Allardyce has no option but to choose Rhu-Endly Cuco Martina for the left back spot even though the 28-year-old has played through the entire holiday season.
Ashley Williams and Michael Keane might pair up in the centre-back position with Phil Jagielka given a breather.
Midfield
James McCarthy needs to shake off the rust with an improved display in this fixture. He is predicted to start alongside Tom Davies in the holding midfield role. The duo will have their defensive duties cut out for them against a fast-paced attacking side.
Gylfi Sigurdsson might return to the lineup after missing the last fixture in the left wing role. He drifts into a more central position to link up the play with the final third.
Wayne Rooney is also expected to start in the attacking midfield role with Kevin Mirallas next to him on the left. The Belgium international has barely featured for the side but should receive a chance to impress the manager.
Attack
Although the club has confirmed the signing of Cenk Tosun and would like him to start for this fixture, terms are yet to be finalised and the Turk still needs to pass his medical examination.
Dominic Calvert-Lewin is a predicted starter in the lone striker role.
