It’s been quite a start to the season so far for Everton and Carlo Ancelotti. They have played 5 games in all competitions and won all 5 rather impressively. They are coming on the back of a resounding thumping of Fleetwood Town while West Ham also managed to swat aside Hull in the previous round.
With both teams having some good momentum behind them, it is expected to be a good clash.
Jarrad Branthwaite and Mason Holgate are still ruled out for the time being. There are no other injury issues to speak of. It will be interesting, however, to see what line-up Ancelotti puts out as some changes can be expected.
Second-choice Jonas Lossl might get a start ahead of Pickford, who has produced some shaky performances in recent games.
Kenny comes in for Seamus Coleman. The youngster will be expected to start another cup game after the one against Fleetwood.
As one of the few centre-backs available, Mina continues to keep his starting spot.
The same goes for Keane, with not many centre-backs available at Ancelotti’s disposal.
Digne will return to his natural left-back spot after playing as a centre-back in the Fleetwood game.
Allan might be given a day off, with Tom Davies likely to start this game instead of coming on from the bench.
A sidelined figure after the new midfield arrivals, Sigurdsson will need to make most of his chances in the cup competitions.
Another player who replaces one of the new recruits, Bernard, got on the scoresheet last time around and will be hoping for something similar.
Replacing James Rodriguez will be no easy task. Former Arsenal man Iwobi did grab a goal against Fleetwood though and is expected to get the nod.
Calvert-Lewin is in the form of his life. 5 goals in his last 3 outings ensures that Ancelotti won’t be looking at anyone else to provide the goals.
After a few barren games, Richarlison finally got himself a goal via a penalty. He still remains an indispensable part of the team and will be vital to the team’s chances against West Ham.
