Everton predicted lineup vs Manchester City: Richarlison leads the frontline in 4-4-1-1
Fabian Delph will start against his former side
Midfield-
Right wide midfield: Andros Townsend
Andros Townsend’s output has dropped recently after putting unreal numbers earlier in the season but that doesn’t mask the fact that he has been one of the most hardworking players in the squad. His defensive commitment will come to aid once again against Manchester City as he remembers to track back and press the opposition. The Toffees will have chances on the counter and Townsend could play a vital role in the attack.
Central midfield: Fabian Delph
After two impressive outings against Spurs and Wolves, Fabian Delph will be in line to start against his former side. The Englishman will partner Allan in central midfield and will play deep in midfield as he did against Antonio Conte’s side. Delph’s renaissance gives a ray of hope to Evertonians that the 31 year old could prove to be a quality solution in absence of Abdoulaye Doucoure.
With Gomes, Davies and Doucoure unavailable, Benitez will have to carefully deploy Delph and make sure not to overwork him and put him at the risk of picking up another injury.
Central midfield: Allan
With Delph playing deeper, Allan could get occasional chances to jump forward on counters but it is likely that Benitez will instruct the midfield duo to stay put and help the defence to stop the overload of Man City players.
Allan has registered 297 pressures so far, equivalent to 29.8 pressures per game, which is the highest in the Premier League. The Brazilian will have the primary job to break down City’s play and win the ball back.
Left wide midfield: Demarai Gray
Demarai Gray should start on the left instead of playing as a secondary striker behind Richarlison as he is much more direct and has space to exploit on the flanks. Some individual brilliance from the former Leicester City man could indeed help Everton and his breathtaking pace could come in handy when the Toffees hit City on the counter.