Everton: Charly Alcaraz to start vs Sunderland as Idrissa Gana Gueye injury gives reason for reshuffle
Everton‘s Charly Alcaraz is a forgotten man at Hill Dickinson, but he has his best chance of a start against Sunderland due to Idrissa Gana Gueye’s injury.
The Toffees host the Black Cats at home in their penultmate opportunity to keep fighting for a spot in Europe next season.
David Moyes confirmed before the game that he will be without Gana Gueye, who has an ‘outside chance. of being involved in the final match of the season.
Tim Iroegbunam started in Everton’s 2-2 draw against Crystal Palace with Merlin Rohl also having another crack at first team action, but that could change.
Moyes is a big fan of Alcaraz if his press conferences are anything to go by, as handing him a start this Sunday could be key.
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Charly Alcaraz could come in for Merlin Rohl
Iroegbunam is highly likely to keep his spot in midfield over Rohl due to Gueye’s expected absence, which puts the latter’s inclusion at risk.
Rohl has split the opinion of Everton fans with his appearances in draws to Crystal Palace and Manchester City, but Alcaraz’s versatility may appeal to Moyes.
| Area of game | Stats |
| Matches | 19 |
| Goal involvements | 1 |
| Pass success | 81.4% |
| Dribble success | 42.9% |
| Chances created per 90 | 1.19 |
Alcaraz boasts a chance creation of 1.19 per 90 minutes, while also recording a positive 81.4 per cent pass accuracy.
The 23-year-old has a dribble success rate of 42.9 per cent, of which he completes 0.80 per game.
The Argentine has just one goal involvement in the league this season, but had five in all competitions in 16 games for the Blues last term.
After having only six starts in the Premier League this season, it’s easy to see why he’s not had the most enjoyable time at Hill Dickinson.
Alcaraz has clear qualities that he can offer Moyes, it’s just up to the Everton boss to trust him.
Alcaraz looking increasingly likely to ask for exit
Alcaraz was resigned to the Toffees last summer after initially impressing while on loan.
However, pound-for-pound, he played more minutes regularly last campaign, as his permanent arrival looks like a mistake up until this point.
Everton look less likely to qualify for Europe at this rate, which makes the need for a large squad far less, changing the outlook this summer.
If Alcaraz is told he will have a similar role for next season, it would be no surprise to see the former Southampton star seek an exit this summer.
A loan move could be sanctioned, while a permanent sale may also be on the cards.
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