Sean Dyche makes major error as Abdoulaye Doucoure named in Everton XI v Burnley
Sean Dyche has made an early error ahead of the Premier League clash between Everton and Burnley after naming Abdoulaye Doucoure in his starting lineup.
The Toffees have named a team with four changes following the 1-1 draw with Newcastle on Tuesday, as they look to beat a relegation rival at home and extend the gap between themselves and the relegation zone.
Seamus Coleman, Andre Gomes, James Garner and Dominic Calvert-Lewin all come into the side, with Amadou Onana and Idrissa Gueye missing out in midfield and Ben Godfrey and Beto moving to the bench.
Should Abdoulaye Doucoure be dropped by Everton?
There’s no doubt that Doucoure has become an integral part of the team at Goodison Park since Sean Dyche’s arrival at the club, which is a stark difference from Frank Lampard’s time as boss.
But the former Watford midfielder has failed to score a goal in 2024 and his recent performances have looked lethargic in that more advanced role.
With Andre Gomes returning to fitness and making a great impact off the bench against Newcastle, the Portuguese playmaker deserved a chance to start in his best position and stake his place in the team.
Dyche wants to see changes in results and performances then he needs to change the personnel when players aren’t performing, rather than constantly letting them play through bad patches.
It’s a mistake on paper at least, but Everton will be hopeful that Doucoure can break his goal duck and justify the manager’s decision.
In other Everton news, one BBC Sport pundit says the Toffees will be in “serious trouble” if they lose to Burnley.
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