Daniel Feliciano

Tue 2 January 2024 21:20, UK

Sean Dyche could be set to make some changes to his Everton starting lineup for their FA Cup third-round clash with Crystal Palace on Thursday night.

The Toffees suffered a 3-0 defeat to Wolves in their last outing, leaving them just one point above the relegation zone after the 10-point deduction and having played one game more than Luton.

With potentially just three fixtures in the month of January Dyche could be tempted to go full strength again, but it also represents an opportunity to give some fringe players minutes after a busy festive schedule.

Jordan Pickford will undoubtedly get the nod in goal as the number one at the club, but the defenders ahead of him may change.

Captain Seamus Coleman made his return to action from injury against Wolves and should start, while Vitalii Mykolenko remains the only fit natural left-back so he should keep his place in the side.

But James Tarkowski and Jarrad Branthwaite have been regulars in the middle this season and Dyche may see this as a chance to give Ben Godfrey a chance alongside veteran Michael Keane.

In midfield Idrissa Gueye has gone to AFCON with Senegal which leaves James Garner and Amadou Onana as the best options in the centre of the pitch, while Andre Gomes should start in a slightly more attacking role with Abdoulaye Doucoure still battling injury.

In the wide areas Dwight McNeil and Jack Harrison have been automatic picks for the boss but their performances have floundered in recent weeks and it could be a chance for alternatives to make their case.

Youngster Lewis Dobbin could slot into the side on the right-wing to provide energy and a goal-threat, while exit-linked Arnaut Danjuma should get the nod on the left in his favourite position.

Up front Dominic Calvert-Lewin hasn’t scored in nine games in all competitions, so Beto deserves an opportunity from the start once again.

In other Everton news, club set to offer Premier League “lifeline” to ex-England international.