Everton predicted lineup vs Manchester United: Ancelotti sticks to 4-2-3-1, Seamus Coleman back
Michael Keane will play a key role in neutralizing Edinson Cavani.
Defence:
Right back: Seamus Coleman
Seamus Coleman was fit and ready for the Arsenal tie but Ancelotti chose Mason Holgate over the Irishman simply because the formula was working and Coleman had just returned from an injury. Coleman is expected to return to the starting eleven against the Red Devils, not only providing defensive solidity but also offering attacking threat going forward.
Centre back: Mason Holgate
Mason Holgate shifting to the centre back role means that Yerry Mina will be rested for the tie. With the close knit backline of Mina, Holgate, Michael Keane and Ben Godfrey working wonders, Ancelotti may continue to use this back four in the league.
Mina has been highly impressive but there’s always a risk of injury with fixtures coming thick and fast hence resting the Colombian could be a smart move. Holgate has regained his sharpness and will do business as usual in the centre of the defence.
Centre back: Michael Keane
Keane has emerged as one of the strongest and consistent players in the Everton team and will once again be an important player in the defence. Edinson Cavani is likely to start for Solskjaer’s team hence, Keane will be needed to keep the Uruguayan’s threat and aerial abilities in check. Even though the 27 year old deserves some rest after relentlessly playing each and every game of the season so far but selecting Jarrad Branthwaite over him may prove to be costly.
Left back: Ben Godfrey
Honestly, I would love to see Niels Nkounkou start against Manchester United but Ancelotti hasn’t shown a lot of faith in the youngsters when it comes to crunch games, choosing experience over youthfulness which is correct especially when the stakes are so high. It won’t be a surprise to see Godfrey play in the left back role after gradually building up his performances in an unfamiliar position.