Sean Dyche might never start Michael Keane again – Three things learned in Everton v Preston
Everton secured a 3-0 win in their penultimate preseason clash against Preston with Michael Keane potentially starting for the final time under Sean Dyche.
A Dominic Calvert-Lewin penalty and debut strikes from Jake O’Brien and Jesper Lindstrom saw a friendly win at Deepdale secured.
As Everton’s preseason preparations continue ahead of the Premier League opener, Goodison News picks out three things that has learned.
Michael Keane to lose Everton spot to Jake O’Brien
The 31-year-old spent the majority of last season on the bench for the Toffees with James Tarkowski and Jarrad Branthwaite immovable under Dyche.
With the latter suffering an injury ahead of preseason, Keane was handed a start against Preston but didn’t impress supporters.
Early on the defender nearly laid the ball on a plate for his brother and North End striker, Will Keane.
In the second half new signing O’Brien came on at centre-back and put in a positive performance, capping it off with a debut goal.
The Ireland international will likely challenge Tarkowski for his starting XI spot next season, leaving Keane even further down the pecking order.
Tim Iroegbunam to be a midfield general
The singing of Iroegbunam was one that came as a surprise and saw Lewis Dobbin move in the opposite direction.
After limited appearances at Aston Villa last season, it was questionable whether or not the former England youth international would feature much under Dyche.
These thoughts have been put to bed after a superb performance from the 21-year-old against Preston which saw him control the midfield.
His combination of ability on the ball while being able to break up play will make him a useful asset moving into the Premier League campaign.
In a double pivot alongside Idrissa Gueye with Abdoulaye Doucoure ahead of them, Everton could have a positive year ahead of them.
Jesper Lindstrom can score freekicks for Everton
The Toffees have longed for a player with the technical ability to score from free-kick situations and they may have found that player.
Most recently Lucas Digne was a top-class set piece operator but after he moved on, the void he left has not been filled.
The debutant Dane scored a wonderful goal against Preston, leaving David Cornell with no chance in goal.
Looking forward to his first season in the Premier League on loan at Goodison Park, there is plenty of excitement surrounding the wideman.
If he can carry his performance at Deepdale into the season opener against Brighton, the 24-year-old will become a fan favourite in no time.
In other Everton news, the Toffees have submitted an offer to sign £25.3m-rated striker ‘destined to leave’ his club.
For more Everton news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.