By Daniel Feliciano

15th Mar, 2023 | 5:10pm

Amadou Onana to be axed, James Garner to make first start - Everton predicted XI v Chelsea

Sean Dyche could make a surprise change to his Everton starting lineup when they head to Stamford Bridge to face Chelsea on Saturday (18 March).

The Toffees made it three wins from seven under the new boss and moved up to 15th place in the Premier League with a 1-0 win over Brentford last weekend (11 March).

But with a big fixture against a Chelsea side who have turned a corner next up, Dyche has some decisions to make on his starting lineup to try and keep the good run of form for his side going.

In goal Jordan Pickford has been in good form and is as committed as ever after signing his new contract with the club, so there are no doubts that he will start between the sticks.

The defence has got a new look since Dyche came into the club and he is likely to continue to go with it.

Seamus Coleman will continue at right-back despite Nathan Patterson being fit enough to earn a call-up to the Scotland national team, while Ben Godfrey has made the left-back spot his own in the last two games as Everton avoided defeat both times.

James Tarkowski has been an ever-present for Dyche so far, but Michael Keane has surprised people by coming back into the fold ahead of Conor Coady but his performances have meant he is likely to keep his place.

In midfield Idrissa Gueye has looked back to his best in recent games after a poor spell and should keep his spot at the base of the midfield, while Abdoulaye Doucoure’s comeback from banishment under Frank Lampard has been nothing short of exceptional.

Amadou Onana suffered a nasty blow to the head against Brentford and had a swollen eye after being substituted. His form hasn’t been the best in recent weeks either, and a rest could do him well while also giving James Garner a chance to finally step into the role and make a name for himself.

In attack Dwight McNeil has been in great form on the left whipping in crosses and even getting the winning goal last week for Everton, while his off the ball work rate has been perfect for Dyche to implement into the team.

Alex Iwobi has continued to work hard and play well on the right wing since Dyche has come in, and once again the off the ball work rate has been a key element into his starting spot, so he will get the nod once again.

Up front is a tough call for Dyche to make, with Dominic Calvert-Lewin expected to be available for the first time since the 1-0 win over Arsenal.

After a lengthy spell out though the boss isn’t likely to throw him straight back in to the deep end, and with Demarai Gray performing well up front the former England international is more likely to come in on the bench meaning Gray can retain his spot.