Everton: 3 formations Rafa Benitez could select against Liverpool

A fluid 3-5-2 or 5-3-2 offers more solidity at the back for Everton

3. 3-5-2

This formation could only work if Yerry Mina is available. A back three could consist of Michael Keane, Ben Godfrey and Mina. In case Mina isn’t available, Seamus Coleman could play in the right-sided centre back role and Townsend could play as a wing back. Townsend has an excellent defensive discipline and can carry out the role with confidence.

A back three could be risky and if defensive solidity crumbles, things could get very ugly and Everton might lose the plot entirely. Everton played a back three against Burnley but struggled to penetrate through the Burnley low block. With Liverpool playing high up the pitch, Everton will want to soak pressure and hit on the counter.

The 3-5-2 can easily become a 5-3-2 if Liverpool overload in the attack. This does reduce the opportunities in attack but it is unlikely that the Royal Blues are to dominate possession, they will likely sit and defend and hope to break on the counter.

This formation will allow Delph to partner with Doucoure and Allan in midfield and make the engine room more secure and well balanced. However, in such formation, Richarlison could once again get frustrated as he did against Manchester City as he would receive minimum service but will be expected to make the most of the chances that could be presented to him when Everton hit on the break.

Which formation will Rafa Benitez go with?