Everton play host to Chelsea at the Hill Dickinson Stadium this weekend.
David Moyes’ side return to action on Saturday evening, hoping to bounce back from the 2-0 defeat to Arsenal.
Wonder how much we’d be able to sell him for…😬
Everton striker Thierno Barry.
Everton know a win could see them move into the European places, so there’s a lot riding on the clash.
Ahead of the game, we’ve predicted Moyes’ starting line-up.
Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite.
Photo by James Gill – Danehouse/Getty Images
Jarrad Branthwaite could return to Everton XI vs Chelsea
Jarrad Branthwaite missed the Arsenal game, and Moyes kept his cards close to his chest on his condition.
“I am not sharing anything with you, you have named the changes already! We are missing two centre-halves today, but we have also got two who have done really well for us as well,” the Everton boss stated.
Toffees sources have now revealed that Branthwaite’s injury isn’t thought to be anything significant, so he could return to the line-up on Saturday.
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James Tarkowski, who was also absent at the Emirates, picked up an injury in training last week, but there’s no suggestion that it’s long-term.
Given that Tarkowski is at a different stage of his career to Branthwaite, as he turns 34 later this year, he may be given a bit more time to recover.
With that said, Branthwaite may be the only change, with Michael Keane dropping to the substitutes’ bench.
What changes would you make? 🤔
Everton's predicted starting line-up against Chelsea.
Jake O’Brien moves back out to right-back, allowing James Garner to operate in his most favoured position in midfield.
There could be a decision up front, with Beto struggling to make much of an impact since replacing Thierno Barry.
But, it’s more likely that the experienced centre-forward starts. Moyes seems to be trusting his senior players as we head into the final run-in.
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