Gray, Townsend to start; James set to miss out – Predicted Everton XI v Southampton
Everton are set to be without the services of James Rodriguez for the opening Premier League game against Southampton on Saturday.
According to Sports Witness’ Sean Lunt, he is training away from the squad and due to that, and Rafa Benitez has stated that he is isolating due to Covid-19 issues. [BBC]
New signings Demarai Gray and Andros Townsend could be handed their Toffees debuts by Rafa Benitez.
Richarlison, who’s had a long summer with Brazil, is in contention and could start against the Saints.
In goal, Jordan Pickford is the obvious pick after a brilliant tournament for England at Euro 2020. The Blues signed another keeper in Asmir Begovic, but he’s unlikely to replace our number one.
In defence, we look solid and Seamus Coleman is likely to start with the captain’s armband. Despite links to right-backs this summer, none have walked through the door, leaving us with no quality alternatives.
At the heart of the back line, Michael Keane and Ben Godfrey are expected to start and could be our preferred centre-back pairing for this season with Yerry Mina playing as their understudy.
Lucas Digne at left-back is another glaringly obvious pick and we will be looking to attack with venom from that side of the pitch.
In midfield, Allan and Abdoulaye Doucoure are expected to start as a two with four attacking players lining up in front of them.
Townsend, who usually prefers to play out wide could be moved to a number 10 position with Richarlison and Gray playing on either side.
Dominic Calvert-Lewin is expected to shake off a minor niggle and lead the line for us.
In other Everton news, Club inform key player whether he’ll be sold this summer amid speculation – report
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