Predicting Everton’s Line-Up Against Chelsea

The international break is nearly at end and the Everton boys are set to make a welcome return this weekend after a fortnight’s absence.

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Chelsea will visit Goodison Park in the early-kick off this Saturday with both sides looking to kick on after uncertain openings to the season, but who will feature for the hosts?

Here are my predictions for who Roberto Martinez will select.

Goalkeeper: TIM HOWARD
The American has had a mixed start to the campaign for Everton, with some impressive displays in-amongst some woeful ones reminiscent of last season.

He still has enough to feature in front of Joel Robles though, who didn’t take his chance to impress in the Capital One Cup.

Right Back: SEAMUS COLEMAN
The full-back has looked short of his best so far in 2015-16, but a lack of serious competition for places means he is guaranteed to keep his spot.

Centre Back: PHIL JAGIELKA
Jagielka is another one whose season has been somewhat of a mixed bag, but his status as captain and his experience means he could prove crucial for the visit of the champions.

Centre Back: JOHN STONES
The youngster has been one of the team’s more impressive performers so far, despite the pressure on him. With Chelsea being the visitors, an interesting sub-plot has emerged before the game has even begun.

Left Back: BRYAN OVIEDO
The Costa Rican looks a little short on match fitness and sharpness, but injuries to Brendan Galloway and Leighton Baines means he is sure to feature from the off for Everton on Saturday.

Centre Midfielder: JAMES McCARTHY
Despite a relatively quiet start to the campaign, the midfielder is one of the first names on the team sheet still.

He will have to work his socks off on Saturday, and you suspect he will do just that.

Centre Midfielder: GARETH BARRY
Barry enjoyed an outstanding debut against Chelsea at Goodison two years ago and hopefully he puts in a similar showing this time around.

His experience and know-how will be vital in the heart of the midfield.

Right Wing: KEVIN MIRALLAS

It is baffling that he hasn’t featured more this season, but Tom Cleverley’s injury means he is sure to get a start this weekend.

The Belgian will be eager to get at the susceptible Branislav Ivanovic at every opportunity.

Attacking Midfielder: ROSS BARKLEY

The youngster looks far more assured than this time last year and is adding more goals to his game as well.

Steven Naismith scored the winner in Martinez’s first league win for the Toffees in this fixture two years ago, but he is likely to miss out due to Barkley’s form.

Left Wing: AROUNA KONE
Logic dictates that Gerard Deulofeu should get a run-out, but you very much get the sense that the Ivorian will sneak in ahead of him.

Despite the Spaniard’s incredible talent and ability, as well as youthful hunger, Martinez seems to love playing Kone out wide, regardless of how many times it proves to be a less than fruitful tactic.

Striker: ROMELU LUKAKU

The big Belgian has enjoyed a fine start to 2015-16 and will be eager to maintain that form at the weekend.

After ending a sour relationship with Jose Mourinho’s side last year, the forward will be desperate to put one over his former manager.

Next: Jagielka, Stones And Barkley Feature In England Triumph

Predicting Everton’s Line-Up Against Chelsea

By Steve Nicholls | Sep 9, 2015

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