Should Everton experiment with squad in remaining fixtures?
By Zac Jones
Last weekend’s Merseyside derby saw Everton’s final meaningful fixture of the season end in a lacklustre 0-0 draw.
While many fans would have settled for this before the match, the way the game unfolded meant that Everton could, or perhaps should, have taken away more than a point.
But regardless of the result, it has effectively drawn a close on the current campaign for the Toffees.
They are unlikely to finish in a European place and are a comfortable 13 points above the relegation zone. Therefore they are almost guaranteed to finish in mid-table obscurity when this season is completed.
With little more than pride at stake in the remaining fixtures, perhaps the Blues should use this opportunity to give some fringe players a chance in the first team.
A number of players are fighting for their Everton future and should at least be allowed to show what they can give to the club with minutes on the pitch.
However, when asked about Davy Klaassen recently, manager Sam Allardyce was quoted as saying:
"“If I had the opportunity to play him I would, but I haven’t because I’ve got to win. So I don’t have the luxury of saying ‘go on, give it a go lad!’ because if we lose it’s me that gets the stick.”"
It may already be too late for ‘Big Sam’; if rumours are to be believed he is also fighting for his Everton future.
If he hopes to win over his doubters continuing with his current tired tactics will not do him any favours. Surely the final fixtures of the season do give Allardyce the luxury of experimenting with his squad and he should take advantage of that.
Klaassen is a highly decorated player and could very well come good for Everton despite a disappointing debut campaign. But he isn’t the only player who deserves a chance to prove his worth to the team.
The likes of Nikola Vlašić and Beni Baningime have impressed when given the opportunity this season and would be a welcome addition to the side in the upcoming matches.
It could be argued that the current back four should not be changed after Everton have finally found a solid defensive unit.
There are a number of defenders that need the opportunity to show something if they want to avoid being sold in the Summer.
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Luke`Garbutt has earned praise for his performances in the U-23s squad but has not been able to force his way into the first team despite being registered in January.
Meanwhile, Ramiro Funes Mori will be looking for game time after recently returning from a long-term injury.
Jonjoe Kenny and Mason Holgate (if he is fit in time) will also be hoping for more minutes on the pitch to show their worth to the team before what is expected to be a busy upcoming transfer window for the Blues.
Next: Blues season summed up in forward woes
Introducing some fresh blood to the side in the remaining games could help get the fans on side and may end the season with at least a hint of positivity at the club.