Everton predicted XI vs Sunderland: Merlin Rohl made to pay as David Moyes reverts to basics
Everton are looking to keep hold of their faint European hopes on Sunday, as they welcome Sunderland to Merseyside.
David Moyes’ side have taken their fair share of bruises in recent weeks, conceding late on in four of their last five.
Across those five matches, they also happen to be winless, resulting in the loss of control in the battle for Europe.
However, the Toffees do remain in touch, and a win against Sunderland could be the boost they need heading into the final day against Tottenham.
With Sunderland making the trip to Hill Dickinson Stadium, Everton are preparing for one final outing at their new stadium this term.
🏟️ EVERTON MATCH DAY CENTRE 🏟️
Line-ups, predicted XIs, live player ratings, tactical verdicts, and match analysis from Hill Dickinson Stadium.
Get 24/7 updates from your definitive Everton source
David Moyes goes back to basics in Sunderland team selection
Everton drew 2-2 with Crystal Palace last time out, in what proved to be the latest in a series of matches that has seen the Toffees throw away points.
After falling to defeat against both Liverpool and West Ham in stoppage time, the Blues would also let their lead slip against Manchester City in the dying moments, before Jean-Phillipe Mateta’s equaliser for Palace came in the 77th minute.
| Game | Score before 90′ min | 90’+ goal conceded | Player scored | Score at full-time |
| Everton vs Man City | 3-2 (Everton) | 90+7′ | Jeremy Doku | 3-3 Draw |
| West Ham vs Everton | 1-1 | 90+2′ | Callum Wilson | 2-1 (West Ham) |
| Everton vs Liverpool | 1-1 | 90+10′ | Virgil van Dijk | 2-1 (L’pool) |
Looking to get back to winning ways, Moyes may look to revert back to basics with his team selection – resulting in the inclusion of Dwight McNeil, who could be the sole change out on the right in place of Merlin Rohl.
Rohl has impressed when given a chance across recent months, operating in multiple positions.
Though he is far from a natural wideman, further placing the attacking expectations on Iliman Ndiaye, who is suffering as a result of carrying the burden on his own.
McNeil has had his own struggles this term, particularly before and after his failed move to Crystal Palace in January.
As a result, the former Burnley man may be one of the first to leave the club this summer, but the recent period on the bench may be exactly what he has needed, before one final chance to impress in front of the Toffees faithful.
Up top, Beto is likely to start, after scoring his ninth of the season at Selhurst Park.
Everton must invest over the summer
Missing out on European football would naturally be a big disappointment given Everton’s season as a whole.
But they have made real progress under Moyes this term, with the relegation worries of recent years now very much a thing of the past.
However, the current squad remains largely the same as the one previously fighting for survival.
As a result, Everton are in need of a refresh over the summer months if they are to build on this season.
The chance to make Europe is still there, though the Toffees are in need of a strong end to the season, before big backing in the transfer window.
Don’t Miss a Beat: Your Goodison News Insider Access
Updated 24/7 with expert analysis from the heart of Goodison Park.