Everton confirmed XI v Brighton: Two changes for Sean Dyche with surprise recall
The Everton line-up has been confirmed for the crucial Premier League meeting with Brighton and Hove Albion on Monday (08 May).
Sean Dyche has named two changes from the team that drew 2-2 with Leicester City last Monday, as the battle for top-flight survival intensifies. 12 points are left to fight for and each one matters, starting tonight at the Amex Stadium.
The Toffees played their part in an enthralling contest against the Foxes last week but as much as they will need to show a similar danger in attack, the defence will need to sharpen up for this game.
Nathan Patterson was expected to come into the starting line-up, in place of Seamus Coleman, having done so in the second half at the King Power Stadium last Monday but Yerry Mina takes Michael Keane’s place in the heart of the back line.
Elsewhere, the manager has opted for consistency in a team that largely picks itself, based on recent weeks.
Need at least a draw
This game, against a thriving Brighton side under Roberto De Zerbi, will be a significant test for Dyche’s men.
Last week at Leicester was end to end, but this contest will require more restraint and caution given that the Seagulls have notched up 10 goals in their last three home league outings, including the recent 6-0 demolition job against Wolves.
Just three games remain after the trip to East Sussex and with Manchester City up next, time is not on the side of the Toffees if relegation to the Championship is to be averted.
Points are the only priority now with the team needing to secure at least a draw against Brighton, in order to push on and get the job done.
Not only would there be an obvious benefit in any move up the table, but it would boost confidence and belief ahead of a frenetic finish to the campaign.
In other Everton news, Stan Collymore predicts the result of the Premier League clash v Brighton.