Everton are currently standing in a crucial juncture and will face Lyon in a must-win match in the Europa League. Ronald Koeman’s side would be hoping for a turnaround and they do have a very good opportunity against the French side this time.
Koeman’s managerial methods are being scrutinized following Everton’s miserable start to this season. The Toffees’ star-studded lineup has failed to garner out any positives since the start of the season and somewhere down the line, Koeman has lost his popularity among the Everton fan base.
The Toffees were tipped to do well in the Europa League but their loss against Atalanta played down their ambitions. Everton looked clueless against the Italian team and Koeman didn’t seem to have a plan B.
Their disappointing 2-2 draw against Apollon Limassol almost sent them packing from the Europe’s second most premier competition. A team of Everton’s stature should have won this kind of match without any sort of competition. They will look to do one better this time and here is the predicted lineup Koeman might field for this tie:
Defence
Jordan Pickford’s performance in the goal has been scrappy and he needs to be aware as Lyon can be very threatening inside the attacking third. Michael Keane’s performance has been pretty satisfactory for the Merseyside club and he is expected to start at the heart of the defence.
Phil Jagielka has come up with some very inspiring performances recently and should get the call. Leighton Baines has been a regular in the left flank and will continue his duty. Mason Holgate will start as a right back.
Midfield
Morgan Schneiderlin shouldn’t try too much in the midfield and should stick to his basics. Idrissa Gueye has been the engine room for the Toffees and he will have to bridge the gap between the defence and the attack. This partnership could be key to Everton’s victory in this tie.
Attack
With such an envious attacking lineup, Koeman should see out this match with ease. Ademola Lookman was a part of Everton’s Europa League qualifying rounds and with Arsenal due for a visit to the Goodison Park next, Koeman is expected to tweak his lineup a bit and Lookman is set for a start.
Kevin Mirallas should come into the starting lineup. The Belgian international could play an important role in this match given his experience in the big games. Gylfi Sigurdsson will be playing in the creative role and is likely to get a place in the no. 10 position.
Wayne Rooney will be the lone striker. Here is how they might line up:
