David Moyes decision vs Fulham exposes issue that will define Everton’s season
David Moyes has made one change to his Everton side to face Fulham on Saturday.
Everton are looking to get their campaign back on track after a run of just one win in their last eight matches.
Everton drew 1-1 against Sunderland last time out, in a game which showed off their firepower issues to a wider audience.
Moyes has attempted to address this with his selection for the Hill Dickinson Stadium clash on 8 November.
Who lines up for Everton against Fulham?
Moyes confirmed that Iliman Ndiaye was fit for Everton, after he was forced off in the second half against Sunderland.
Jarrad Branthwaite and Nathan Patterson remain out of action, but the Scotsman has no fresh injury concerns.
He has decided to keep the faith with Thierno Barry upfront and has brought Tim Ireogbunam into the side.
Jake O’Brien makes way, with James Garner stepping in at right-back for the clash against the Cottagers.
Everton have a huge issue at right-back
O’Brien has been playing as a makeshift right-back, and he has been mostly impressive, but for a few shaky performances.
Moyes has clearly decided that he needs more attacking threat from the position though, with his selection of Garner over the Ireland ace.
- O’Brien has played 10 times in the league this season
- Garner has deputised at left-back already when Vitalii Mykolenko was out with injury
- Back-up options Seamus Coleman and Nathan Patterson are not reliable
The Blues failed to add a right-back in the summer window, and they are being made to pay for that at the moment, it could define their season if they cannot find the right balance.
Moyes may come to regret that call at the final whistle, as his side desperately needs victory in the contest, to arrest their poor run of form recently.
If they do not come away with all three points, then the call will be scrutinised and the 62-year-old may be under more pressure.
The Blues currently sit 15th in the table, and are hoping to start moving upwards in the coming weeks, but their right-back issue is a huge concern.
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