View: Predicted Everton XI v Brighton
Everton are set to face Brighton on Monday as they look to bring a three-game winless run in the Premier League to an end.
The Toffees were frustrated by Crystal Palace in the last found of fixtures, with the Eagles scoring a late equaliser to deny Everton three points at Goodison Park.
Brighton meanwhile were unfortunate not to get the better of Manchester United at Old Trafford, ending their two-game winning run, having recently beaten Southampton and Newcastle.
At Goodison News, we have named our predicted Everton XI to take on Brighton on Monday…
With Jordan Pickford still unavailable to return from injury, Robin Olsen is the natural choice between the posts. Joao Virginia performed admirably against Manchester City in the FA Cup, but Olsen retains his place after returning against Palace.
Everton created a host of chances against the Eagles, and as such it wouldn’t be a surprise to see Ancelotti operate with a similar system against the Seagulls.
As such the defensive shape remains unchanged, though Carlo could rotate his options. We predict that Michael Keane, Yerry Mina and Ben Godfrey could start with Mason Holgate left out, though in reality Ancelotti could drop any of the four depending on his preference.
Seamus Coleman and Lucas Digne will retain their positions as Everton’s marauding wing-backs, while there will be changes in the space between the duo.
Andre Gomes sustained a knock against Palace and, assuming he isn’t fit to return, Gylfi Sigurdsson will take his place.
Ancelotti hasn’t provided a clear assessment on Allan either, so if the Brazilian isn’t fit then Tom Davies will definitely play once more.
James Rodriguez and Richarlison are likely to remain on the flanks for the Blues with the license to drift inside when required.
Richarlison will be given the opportunity to write his wrongs against Brighton, having missed many chances against Palace, while James will be relied upon once again to produce magic after an impressive display at Goodison Park last time out.
Dominic Calvert-Lewin was equally culpable for Everton’s failure to dominate Palace, but Ancelotti is not going to hand Josh King his first start over the England international.
Brighton will provide a stern test for Everton as the season draws to a close. For the Blues the clash at the Amex is a must-win as they try to close the gap on the top four.
Ancelotti will need his side back to their best if they are to stand a chance at qualifying for Europe this season.
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