Everton are set to begin their Premier League campaign against Crystal Palace at Hill Dickinson Stadium next Saturday, following a stoppage-time defeat in their final pre-season friendly against Lille. The Blues will aim to replicate their opening-day victory over Brighton & Hove Albion in the 2025/26 season.
Pickford set for 146th consecutive league appearance
Jordan Pickford returned against Lille after his World Cup exploits with England. Despite Mark Travers starting all previous friendlies, Pickford is expected to start in goal for a 146th consecutive Premier League appearance, a run stretching back to the 2-1 win at Southampton on October 1, 2022.
Right-back dilemma persists
Everton have yet to sign a new right-back. Merlin Rohl, a midfielder by trade, has started there in two of the last three matches, with Nathan Patterson starting against Newcastle United in between. Patterson remains the club's only natural option in the position but still looks surplus to requirements.
Rohl, who has had an encouraging pre-season, appears the most likely candidate, but centre-back Jake O'Brien, who has spent much of the past 18 months at right-back, could reprise his role against his former club. O'Brien has impressed in his favoured central position but faces competition from James Tarkowski and Jarrad Branthwaite, meaning he could be on the bench alongside Michael Keane if not selected at centre-back.
Left-back and midfield options
Vitalii Mykolenko still looks set to start at left-back due to a lack of alternatives, though Adam Aznou has shown promise in recent outings, particularly going forward. Christian Norgaard, signed as a replacement for Idrissa Gueye, is yet to feature for Everton. With James Garner and Tim Iroegbunam injured, Harrison Armstrong and Hayden Hackney could build on their fledgling partnership in midfield, provided Rohl is not moved there.
Charly Alcaraz offers another option in central midfield, but he is unlikely to displace Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall in an advanced role or compete with the wide options. Iliman Ndiaye has started the last two matches and looks set to occupy one winger berth, with Tyrique George, Tyler Dibling, and Brennan Johnson competing for the other.
Barry poised to lead the line
Thierno Barry has enjoyed an impressive pre-season, unlike Beto, so the Frenchman looks likely to spearhead the attack in the opener.
