Everton’s expected line-up against Brentford - with Abdoulaye Doucoure decision made

Everton make the trip to Brentford this afternoon aiming to snap out of their lacklustre form.

The Toffees have picked up just two points in their past six games and a victory against the Bees is needed.

However, Rafa Benitez again has selection problems, with several players unavailable because of injury and suspension.

Here’s how we think the visitors will line-up in the capital.

Goalkeeper

Jordan Pickford will have been frustrated to have shipped three goals at the Etihad.

He'll be hoping for a fourth clean sheet of the season.

Defence

Yerry Mina's ongoing absence is a big blow for Everton. They've missed his dominance in the rearguard but a hamstring issue keeps him out.

Mason Holgate's also suspended so it appears that Michael Keane and Ben Godfrey will keep both of their spots in central defence.

There have been calls from some supporters to hand youngster Jarrad Branthwaite a chance, however.

Lucas Digne's form has dipped his season but will retain his spot at left-back, with Seamus Coleman captaining the Toffees on the opposite flank.

Midfield

The big question is whether Benitez is prepared to throw Abdoulaye Doucoure back into the team in his first game back from injury.

Everton have lacked his energy and physicality in the engine room while he's been sidelined with a foot issue.

Benitez has spoken how he'd perhaps be more cautious if Doucoure was coming back from a muscle issue rather. However, because it's a broken bone, that suggests the Frenchman might well be handed a start.

The ex-Watford man also hinted on social media his comeback will be soon.

Allan had a slight issue in training this week but the soundbites are he is OK. That could see Benitez revert back to a four-man midfield.

Andros Townsend should feature on the right and with Demarai Gray a doubt with an adductor complaint, Anthony Gordon will instead make a third successive start.

Upfront

There are decisions to make. Richarlison is forced to serve a one-match suspension while Dominic Calvert-Lewin is still troubled with a quad injury.

Supporters have been frustrated with Salomon Rondon's start at Goodison since his summer arrival.

However, Benitez is confident the Venezuela international will find his feet, having worked together previously at Newcastle and Chinese side Dalian.

Youngsters Ellis Simms and Lewis Dobbin didn't feature for the under-23s in a 4-0 loss to Tottenham on Friday and that suggests they'll be involved.

However, Benitez is likely to stick with Rondon.

He'll need someone playing just off him and that will probably fall to Alex Iwobi.

The former Arsenal forward has struggled his season but a dearth of options means he'll continue.

Cenk Tosun is an option but he’s been left on the bench three times since returning from a long-term knee injury.