Sport nationEverton’s Desperate Search for Momentum: Predicted Lineup Against Southampton
Everton’s dismal start to the 2024/25 Premier League season has left fans and manager Sean Dyche searching for answers. With four consecutive losses, the Toffees are desperate for a win, and their Carabao Cup tie against Southampton might be the perfect opportunity to regain momentum.
In an effort to shake things up, Dyche is predicted to make eight changes to the lineup that suffered a heartbreaking 3-2 defeat at Aston Villa. The most notable change sees João Virginia replace Jordan Pickford between the posts. Virginia, 24, has yet to feature this season but has been on the bench for each of Everton’s contests. While Pickford is one of the finest goalkeepers in the Premier League, Dyche may be looking to give Virginia a chance to prove himself.
Roman Dixon, one of the few bright sparks in Everton’s bleak start, is expected to start at right-back. With Seamus Coleman and Nathan Patterson injured, Dixon will get the nod. The teenager showed promise in the heavy defeat against Tottenham Hotspur and will look to build on that performance.
James Tarkowski will partner Jake O’Brien in central defense. Tarkowski remains one of Everton’s best players, despite a sluggish start to the season. O’Brien, signed from Lyon in July for £17m, has played a bit-part role so far but will add a new dimension to the defense.
Vitalii Mykolenko will start at left-back, providing athleticism and energy to the position. Mykolenko’s cameo against Aston Villa was impressive, and he will look to build on that performance.
Orel Mangala, a summer signing, will make his first start in central midfield. Mangala boasts excellent ball retention and defensive skills, which could prove crucial in Everton’s quest to preserve their Premier League status.
James Garner and Abdoulaye Doucoure will provide midfield stability, with Garner’s positional fluidity and tenacity showcasing his quality. Doucoure has been hailed as Everton’s “catalyst” in attack and will look to create scoring opportunities.
Jesper Lindstrom and Iliman Ndiaye will provide width and attacking threat on the wings. Lindstrom has a shrewd eye for goal, while Ndiaye has looked menacing in the Premier League without fully delivering.
Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s injury sees Beto lead the line. The hulking centre-forward has struggled since arriving from Italy but will be desperate to hit a purple patch and better his current goal-scoring record.
Everton’s predicted lineup is as follows: João Virginia in goal, Roman Dixon at right-back, James Tarkowski and Jake O’Brien in central defense, Vitalii Mykolenko at left-back, James Garner and Orel Mangala in central midfield, Jesper Lindstrom and Iliman Ndiaye on the wings, Abdoulaye Doucoure in attacking midfield, and Beto up front.
Fans are split on the decision to drop Pickford, with some agreeing it’s necessary and others thinking it’s unfair. James Tarkowski’s performance has also come under scrutiny, with some calling for him to be sold.
Everton’s poor start has increased pressure on Dyche, and the manager’s decision to make changes may be a last-ditch effort to turn the season around. The Carabao Cup tie against Southampton is a crucial opportunity for Everton to regain momentum and build confidence.
With the Premier League season already slipping away, Everton must win against Southampton to restore hope. Dyche’s lineup changes may be the catalyst for a turnaround, but only time will tell.
Everton’s desperation for a win is palpable, and the predicted lineup against Southampton showcases Dyche’s willingness to shake things up. With Virginia, Dixon, O’Brien, and Mangala making their mark, the Toffees will look to capitalize on Southampton’s own struggles. Can Everton regain momentum, or will their poor start continue?
Sport nation
Amina Umar
