Everton go on their travels for the first time in the 2023-24 season as they face Aston Villa.
The Toffees started the new campaign with a 1-0 loss to Fulham at Goodison Park last week. However, Sean Dyche’s side had more than enough goalscoring chances to put the game to bed, especially in the first half.
Dyche has insisted he will be reaffirming the good aspects of the performance to his squad ahead of the clash although he knows Everton face tough opposition.
Villa suffered a shock 5-1 defeat by Newcastle United in their opening fixture. However, the Birmingham-based side went on a magnificent run after Unai Emery took charge as head coach last season, culminating in qualification for the Europa Conference League.
Dyche has to decide as to whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin can start for the Blues. The striker was omitted against Fulham but got 90 minutes under his belt in a training match at Manchester United’s Carrington training ground earlier this week. The likes of Arnaut Danjuma and Vitalii Mykolenko also featured as they aim to get up to full match fitness.
Ahead of the trip to Villa Park, here’s the Everton team we predict will line-up.
1. GK - Jordan Pickford
Played in only one of England’s two games so will be fresh enough. He may be in for a busy afternoon. Photo: Michael Regan/Getty Images)
2. RB - Nathan Patterson
Barely played for Scotland during the break, which is a positive for Everton.
3. CB - James Tarkowksi
Would have benefited from some time off during the break. Fine to feature after his head injury suffered at Sheffield United. Photo: Jess Hornby/Getty Images
4. CB - Jarrad Branthwaite
Pulled out of England under-21 duty with a minor groin issue but is fine to feature.