Everton continue their pre-season campaign with a trip to Stoke City today (15.00 BST).
The Toffees have so far played three friendlies this summer - and are unbeaten. Sean Dyche’s side racked up wins against Stade Nyonaiss and Wigan Athletic before being held to a goalless draw against Bolton Wanderers earlier this week.
But with the 2023-24 Premier League campaign just two weeks away, Everton are likely to start cranking up their preparations. They now face their stiffest test to date against Championship outfit Stoke at the bet365 Stadium.
The Blue’ options have been boosted by the returns of James Garner, Jarrad Branthwaite and Demarai Gray after their international exploits. Meanwhile, new signing Arnaut Danjuma is expected to be involved after signing on a season-long loan from Villarreal last month.
With all that in mind, here’s the possible Everton team that could feature.
5. LB - Ashley Young
Featured in the role against Bolton and Stoke. Vitalii Mykolenko made a playing return against Monza but still may not be fit enough to start. | Getty Images Photo: Matt McNulty/Getty Images
6. CM - Idrissa Gana Gueye
Will have to be on is mettle to screen the defence. | Getty Images Photo: Matt McNulty/Getty Images
7. CM - James Garner
Featured against Monza along with Amadou Onana. But with the latter coming back from an injury, it may be prudent to instead play Garner. | Getty Images Photo: Matt McNulty/Getty Images
8. AM - Abdoulaye Doucoure
Dyche is a big fan of the Mali international and he could look to play just off the central striker like last season. | Getty Images