View: Everton get massive Abdoulaye Doucoure injury boost v Man City
One thing Frank Lampard must have understood by now is that the Everton rebuilding job will take a lot of time and patience.
The Toffees played with energy and confidence at Goodison Park where an electrifying atmosphere triggered them to give their best against Leeds United.
However, away from home, the performance level hasn’t been the same. The euphoria of beating Leeds 3-0 has been neutralised by a poor 2-0 defeat against Southampton.
It is on this backdrop the Toffees welcome the Premier League champions Manchester City to Goodison Park on Saturday [26 February].
If Tottenham can secure a dramatic victory against Pep Guardiola’s side, Everton must believe they can do the same as well. If not, at least they can give it a tough fight.
The return of Abdoulaye Doucoure is so crucial on many levels.
The midfielder is likely to return from an injury lay-off, and Lampard could bring him straight into the starting line-up.
Doucoure has been one of the key players for the Toffees this season. Rafa Benitez gave him a box-to-box role with added freedom, and he was superb in the opening few matches before the side’s gradual decline began.
It will be interesting to see how Lampard uses him against City. One thing is certain – Doucoure gives tactical flexibility and Lampard can make tactical changes in the game as per the situation demands.
Ideally, a three-man midfield would be suitable against the likes of City, and Doucoure’s presence could see Donny van de Beek being given more freedom to link up with the likes of Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Richarlison.
City, obviously, will start as favourites but Lampard has a chance to make a statement here. If they can even earn a draw, it would still be considered as a step taken in the right direction.
In other Everton news, Frank Lampard shares fitness update for Everton ace, ‘close’ for return v Man City