Sean Dyche’s Everton Revamp: Predicted XI for Southampton Carabao Cup Clash
Everton FC’s dismal start to the season has left manager Sean Dyche with no choice but to ring in the changes. The Toffees have lost all four of their Premier League fixtures, conceding 13 goals in the process, and sit at the foot of the table. As they prepare to face Southampton in the Carabao Cup, Dyche is expected to make wholesale changes to his starting lineup.
The Blues’ 3-2 loss to Aston Villa on Saturday was a stark reminder of their defensive woes, with Vitali Mykolenko joining the growing injury list. With a thin squad and a dire need for a win, Dyche must be ruthless in his team selection. Here’s a predicted XI for the Carabao Cup clash against Southampton:
Goalkeeper: Jordan Pickford
Despite his poor form, Pickford is expected to keep his place in goal. Everton cannot afford to drop their England number one, especially with the team’s defensive struggles.
Right-back: Roman Dixon
With Seamus Coleman missing the Villa match and Mykolenko now a doubt, Dyche may hand another start to Roman Dixon. The young full-back has shown promise and could be a viable option for the Blues.
Left-back: Ashley Young
Ashley Young is expected to switch to his more natural left-back spot, allowing Roman Dixon to start on the right. Young’s experience and versatility will be crucial in Everton’s quest for a win.
Center-back: Jake O’Brien
Michael Keane’s performances have been underwhelming, and Dyche may decide to hand summer signing Jake O’Brien a start alongside James Tarkowski. O’Brien’s pace and power could be just what the Blues need to shore up their defense.
Center-back: James Tarkowski
Tarkowski has been one of the few bright spots in Everton’s defense and will likely continue alongside O’Brien.
Midfield: Orel Mangala
Mangala looked solid against Villa and should be given the reins in midfield alongside James Garner. His physicality and work rate could help Everton dominate the midfield battle.
Midfield: James Garner
Garner should return to his midfield duties after replacing Mykolenko at full-back last time out. His creativity and vision will be crucial in unlocking Southampton’s defense.
Winger: Dwight McNeil
McNeil was one of the few attacking threats for Everton against Villa and will be expected to start again. His determination and pace make him a valuable asset for the Blues.
Attacking midfielder: Abdoulaye Doucoure
Doucoure will resume his role behind the striker, providing creativity and link-up play for the Blues.
Winger: Jesper Lindstrom
Lindstrom should be considered for his second start for Everton ahead of Jack Harrison. His pace and skill could cause problems for Southampton’s defense.
Striker: Beto
Dominic Calvert-Lewin has been the subject of intense criticism for his missed chances, and Dyche may decide to take him out of the firing line. Beto deserves valuable minutes at Goodison Park and could be the spark Everton needs to ignite their season.
In conclusion, Sean Dyche’s predicted XI for the Carabao Cup clash against Southampton is a testament to his willingness to shake things up. With a thin squad and a dire need for a win, Dyche must be ruthless in his team selection. This predicted XI offers a mix of youth and experience, pace and power, and creativity and work rate. Will it be enough to secure Everton’s first win of the season? Only time will tell.