Everton predicted lineup vs Manchester City: Richarlison leads the frontline in 4-4-1-1

Everton. (Photo by PETER POWELL/POOL/AFP via Getty Images)
Everton. (Photo by PETER POWELL/POOL/AFP via Getty Images)
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Everton
Everton (Photo by Michael Steele/Getty Images)

Ben Godfrey will start with Micheal Keane at the heart of the back four

Defence –

Right back: Seamus Coleman

Seamus Coleman played two full 90 minute games with Ireland during the International break. He has come back unscathed and will be ready to lead the side at the home of the champions. Raheem Sterling could start on the left flank meaning Coleman will have to deal with the pace of the English forward.

Centre back: Michael Keane

Michael Keane’s lapses of concentration have cost the Toffees dearly but lately the former Burnley man is retracing his path to salvation. His performance against Spurs was one of his best of the season where he was successful in taming the likes of Harry Kane and Heung-Min Son. Against Manchester City, Keane has to tackle a different problem, negating the threat of a false nine in Phil Foden who has been superb in exploiting spaces.

Centre back: Ben Godfrey

With City expected to dominate the possession, Ben Godfrey cannot afford to remain out of position. He needs to remain in discipline with the rest of the backline and coordinate with Keane. His pace and ball carrying ability might help the Toffees in launchinmg counter attacks from the back but the 23 year old needs to remain vigilant.

Left back: Lucas Digne

Lucas Digne will be up against Gabriel Jesus who is reaping rewards at right wing after Guardiola’s positional tweak. Out of the two full backs, Digne is likely to get more freedom in surging forward and assisting the attackers but again the Toffees cannot leave the door ajar at the back for City to come and exploit the spaces.