Everton predicted XI vs. West Ham: Doucoure and DCL start, Richarlison on the bench
![LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 16: Gylfi Sigurdsson of Everton battles for possession with Brandon Thomas-Asante of Salford City during the Carabao Cup Second Round match between Everton FC and Salford City at Goodison Park on September 16, 2020 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Peter Powell - Pool/Getty Images) LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 16: Gylfi Sigurdsson of Everton battles for possession with Brandon Thomas-Asante of Salford City during the Carabao Cup Second Round match between Everton FC and Salford City at Goodison Park on September 16, 2020 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Peter Powell - Pool/Getty Images)](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/shape/cover/sport/482793a9c321eadf41ccf5390fd9b30ba851db9a7b9b0213edf4af7e5d56ef43.jpg)
Bernard could once again be the creative outlet from midfield.
Midfield:
Central defensive midfielder: Abdoulaye Doucoure
Someone like Abdoulaye Doucoure adds the much needed stability in front of the back four. Doucoure is a beast and has tanks of stamina and can’t be bullied off the ball. He could be the key player in breaking down the Hammers attack. The former Watford man is settling well at Goodison and is near to unleashing his complete self at Everton.
Central midfield: Gylfi Sigurdsson
Gylfi Sigurdsson has somewhat lost his starting place after the arrival of Doucoure, Allan and James Rodriguez but is still a very useful substitute. He came against Palace to inject some energy in midfield and help Everton see out the game.
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His role has slightly changed now and he is not essentially a creator now. So far, he is adapting to the new role quite well and showing signs that he still has a lot to offer to the Everton side.
Central midfield: Bernard
Bernard occupies the central midfield only for namesake. So far his exploits have been as an attacking midfielder more like a No.10. This has been the biggest change in Bernard’s game this season compared to last season.
Marco Silva used him at the wings and Ancelotti deployed him on the left. However, this season the Italian has handed the creative role and given the license to Bernard to free roam and act as a No.10. Much of Everton’s attack will flow through him and he needs to bring his top game against West Ham United.