Everton predicted lineup vs. Manchester United: James Rodriguez returns, £40 million man benched

SOUTHAMPTON, ENGLAND - OCTOBER 25: James Rodriguez of Everton during the Premier League match between Southampton and Everton at St Mary's Stadium on October 25, 2020 in Southampton, 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 Robin Jones/Getty Images)
SOUTHAMPTON, ENGLAND - OCTOBER 25: James Rodriguez of Everton during the Premier League match between Southampton and Everton at St Mary's Stadium on October 25, 2020 in Southampton, 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 Robin Jones/Getty Images)
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Everton
LONDON, ENGLAND – SEPTEMBER 13: Allan of Everton is challenged by Pierre-Emile Hoejbjerg of Tottenham Hotspur during the Premier League match between Tottenham Hotspur and Everton at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on September 13, 2020 in London, England. (Photo by Catherine Ivill/Getty Images)

Allan, Doucoure and Andre Gomes feature in the midfield.

Midfield:

Central defensive midfield: Allan

Allan’s elite ball winning abilities have worked wonders for Everton with the Brazilian being a massive help to the defence, acting as a shield. Despite Everton’s unimpressive performances in the last two games, Allan hasn’t let his intensity drop, getting heavily involved in the game.

There’s no way that without Allan exhibiting his A-game, Everton will be able to dominate the midfield battle.

Central midfield: Abdoulaye Docuoure

Abdoulaye Docuoure still hasn’t completed his full transition to Everton with the Frenchman still adjusting to his role, movements of his teammates and fitting into the team. His box-to-box character, power and energy could be on display against Manchester United.

Central midfield: Andre Gomes

The Portuguese had picked up an injury but is fit to start against United. Gomes has recently had lackluster performances, overshadowing his decent form earlier in the season. However, Gomes should still get a nod ahead of Gylfi Sigurdsson with the Iceman heavily disappointing against Newcastle.

Gomes isn’t a traditional creator but has the technical brilliance he possesses makes him an asset in the final third. The Portuguese needs to have a really good game or else it won’t be long before fans start heavily criticizing him.