Everton’s predicted lineup vs. Southampton: James Rodriguez starts, Gordon on the bench

2 of 4

LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND – OCTOBER 17: Ben Godfrey of Everton is challenged by Sadio Mane of Liverpool during the Premier League match between Everton and Liverpool at Goodison Park on October 17, 2020 in Liverpool, England. Sporting stadiums around the UK remain under strict restrictions due to the Coronavirus Pandemic as Government social distancing laws prohibit fans inside venues resulting in games being played behind closed doors. (Photo by Laurence Griffiths/Getty Images) /

Ben Godfrey is expected to start at right back with Coleman out.

Defence:

Right Back: Ben Godfrey

Seamus Coleman’s hamstring injury has ruled him out of the away trip to Southampton and the game will also come too soon for Jonjoe Kenny, who is still recovering from his ankle injury and is not deemed fit enough to be in contention for a starting role in the line-up this weekend.

Carlo Ancelotti confirmed in his pre-match press conference that new recruit Ben Godfrey will start at right-back this Sunday, after making his debut from the bench last weekend in the 2-2 draw against Liverpool.

Centre Backs: Yerry Mina & Michael Keane

With Ben Godfrey confirmed to come into the side at right back, and Mason Holgate and Jarrad Branthwaite still sidelined through injury, Ancelotti does not have many options to change things up in the centre of defence. The boss will almost certainly stick with the centre back pairing of Yerry Mina and Michael Keane that has served him well in the Premier League campaign thus far.

More. Ancelotti drops strongest hint for Everton replacement. light

Michael Keane has been one of Everton’s standout players so far this season and popped up with another important goal against Liverpool last week. Keane’s centre back partner, Yerry Mina, has also made a decent start to the season and the pair will need to be at their best if they are to stop Southampton’s Danny Ings from finding the net yet again against the Blues.

Left Back: Lucas Digne

As well as Michael Keane, Lucas Digne has made an excellent start to the season and put in a solid defensive display against a dangerous Liverpool side last week, while also maintaining his attacking threat going forward.

The Frenchman’s consistently well-rounded performances this season will have delighted Carlo Ancelotti and the left back likely be one of the first names on the team sheet for this weekend’s game.

Home/Everton FC News