Everton suffered a big setback in their pursuit of claiming a European berth next season as they suffered a very rare defeat at the hand of struggling Swansea City. The Toffees will try to recover when they host Watford at the Goodison Park. Home form has been a added advantage in this season as the Merseyside club have lost only on two occasions throughout this season. Everton showed a very encouraging run but haven’t been able to showcase that kind of form in the last few matches as they have not registered a win in the last three games.
Everton have not beaten Watford in the last three encounters and in the reverse fixture, the Hornets ran out winners by a 3-2 margin. But now the equation has been changed and Everton are looking far more determined to grind out a result from the next fixture. Should they win this match it will be the highest points tally to have ever registered at the Goodison Park.
Predicted 4-2-3-1 Everton Lineup Against Watford
Defence
Ronald Koeman had used Joel Robles for most of the part but he has been using Maarten Stekelenburg in the last few matches. Choosing goalkeepers has been a tough task for the gaffer and he should stick with his current choice Stekelenburg.
Putting a very strong defence isn’t possible for Koeman as two of his key defenders Seamus Coleman and Ramiro Funes Mori are serving long term injuries and won’t be able to play in this match. Any new entrance in the defensive plan is not imminent and therefore Koeman is expected to field the same backline that played in the last match. Phil Jagielka will be supported by Ashley Williams in the centre of defence while two of the side back position will be occupied by Leighton Baines and Mason Holgate respectively.
Midfield
Idrissa Gueye’s tireless effort in the middle of the pitch has given Everton a new lease of hope. The 27-year old is absolutely a beast in the midfield and will try to tear apart the Hornets midfield.
Gareth Barry is an old warhorse and he will be working simultaneously just before the Toffees defence to give them an extra layer of protection.
Attack
Koeman has given a chance to a number of youngsters and the end product is brilliant. Tom Davies will start in the attacking midfield. This player has been a revelation and he was also recently adjudged the Everton player of the month for his brilliant contributions.
Ross Barkley will be up ahead on the left flank while Kevin Mirallas is expected to feature on the right wing.
Romelu Lukaku will lead the attack.
