Everton vs West Ham: Projected XI | Richarlison Returns

The postponement of Everton’s clash against Manchester City was a welcome bonus.

The Blues simply weren’t ready to face one of the best sides in Europe with a tired and threadbare squad that had been in action just 48 hours previously.

It also means that Everton can welcome West Ham United on Friday night, with the Blues having not played since last Saturday, while the Hammers have played twice since then.

But how will the Blues line-up as they bid to return to second in the Premier League.

Who’s Out?

Although the players have enjoyed some extra rest in the last few days, there’s only one change in availability, with Richarlison returning from concussion.

Regarding the rest of the absentees, Lucas Digne is about two weeks from returning to full training, Allan will be back at the end of January, while Fabian Delph and Jean-Philippe Gbamin are being carefully restored. James Rodriguez isn’t quite ready, but Carlo is confident he’ll be ready for the Wolves game.

Tactics and Formation

With fresh legs hopefully somewhat restored after the intense festive period, we can expect Carlo to go with a full-strength selection of his fit players, most likely in a 4-2-3-1 setup.

Starters (likelihood of starting rated out of 10)

Robin Olsen – 7/10

If the rotation continues, it’s Olsen’s turn.

Seamus Coleman – 6/10

Possibly the biggest dilemma facing Ancelotti is whether to bring Seamus Coleman back in at right-back in order to provide a great attacking outlet, or continue with Mason Holgate in a sturdier defensive setup. I’ve got a feeling it will be Seamus.

Yerry Mina - 8/10

Could also be Mason Holgate if he’s not utilised at right-back.

Michael Keane – 9/10

Ben Godfrey – 9/10

Abdoulaye Doucoure – 9/10

Tom Davies – 6/10

Another toss-up between Davies and Gomes.

Alex Iwobi – 9/10

Again, could do with a break, but not a lot of options, unless Carlo springs a surprise and keeps Gordon in the team.

Gylfi Sigurdsson – 9/10

Richarlison – 9/10

Returns to the side and will hopefully be a much-needed creative outlet.

Dominic Calvert-Lewin –10/10

Bench

Jordan Pickford

Jonas Lössl

Mason Holgate

Jarrod Branthwaite

Niels Nkounkou

Andre Gomes

Anthony Gordon

Bernard

Cenk Tosun