Although the fear of relegation was looming large a few days ago, Everton have scripted a stunning recovery under Frank Lampard by clinching successive wins against Chelsea and Leicester City. They are on the verge of Premier League safety and a victory over already-relegated Watford should ensure the same with three more games remaining.
These two sides locked horns at Goodison Park earlier this season in a seven-goal thriller. The Toffees, however, underwent a 5-2 humiliation in their own backyard and the stage is set for revenge at Vicarage Road as the Horners have little motivation to replicate a similar show on Wednesday night.
Predicted 5-4-1 Everton Lineup To Face Watford
Defence
Jordan Pickford has made some massive saves in the recent encounters and his presence between the sticks would offer stability despite injuries to an array of key defenders.
Nathan Patterson is ruled out for the season, whereas Ben Godfrey is not fit enough to return to the starting XI. Yerry Mina remains a doubt after picking up a calf strain, but the gaffer is hopeful to have Vitalii Mykolenko back for this midweek contest. Alex Iwobi should start from the deep as a right fullback allowing Seamus Coleman to operate more centrally alongside Michael Keane and Mason Holgate.
Midfield
Things have not gone in favour of Donny van de Beek in spite of a winter loan from Manchester United. He has struggled for minutes with persistent injury problems and is unlikely to pass the fitness test ahead of the Watford game. Dele Alli has failed miserably since joining on loan from Tottenham Hotspur, also a dismal run of form has cost Allan his starting status. Fabian Delph should keep his place alongside Abdoulaye Doucoure in the middle of the park. Demarai Gray and Anthony Gordon are expected to occupy the wide midfield roles with the latter being the only shining light in a gloomy season for the Merseysiders.
Attack
Richarlison scored the decisive goal against Chelsea in their 1-0 triumph. The Brazilian’s swift footwork, movement and poaching skills high up the pitch would be menacing for a depleted Hornets backline. Dominic Calvert-Lewin has been below par due to form and fitness reasons. Having said that, the manager might deploy the Three Lions international at some stage ahead of Salomon Rondon. The latter, however, offers a different kind of threat with his physicality and holding attributes in the closing minutes of edgy outings.
