The stage is set for a significant tactical overhaul as Everton prepares for their final Premier League Summer Series fixture against formidable rivals Manchester United in Atlanta. Under the watchful eye of manager David Moyes, the squad faces crucial decisions regarding their starting lineup, with several key positions under scrutiny following recent performances. This decisive pre-season encounter offers a critical opportunity for the team to fine-tune their strategies and assess player readiness ahead of the highly anticipated Premier League season.
A central point of discussion revolves around the potential return of stalwart defender James Tarkowski to the starting eleven. Having made his first appearance since April as a substitute against West Ham United, Tarkowski is vigorously pushing for a full ninety minutes. His remarkable record of 109 consecutive Premier League starts for Everton, halted only by a hamstring injury, underscores his importance. His potential inclusion could see either Michael Keane or Jake O’Brien make way, or O’Brien might revert to the right-back role he excelled in previously.
In goal, the return of England international Jordan Pickford is widely anticipated. Pickford, whose own impressive run of 107 consecutive Premier League appearances showcases his consistent presence, is expected to reclaim his spot from new understudy Mark Travers. Despite several commendable saves against the Hammers, Travers’ misjudgment, which led to a gifted equalizer for Lucas Paqueta, highlights the need for experienced hands between the posts.
Midfield permutations are also high on David Moyes’ agenda, with James Garner emerging as a versatile option. Having impressed as a right wing-back, Garner could displace Nathan Patterson if Everton maintains a five-at-the-back formation. Alternatively, should the team revert to a flat back four, his capabilities could see him slot into central midfield. This move might impact Idrissa Gueye or Tim Iroegbunam, though Gueye’s strong performance and goal in the tournament so far make him a strong contender to retain his place.
The potential abandonment of wing-backs could similarly trigger a positional shift for Dwight McNeil. Last seen on the left flank, McNeil demonstrated his adaptability as an inverted right winger against Bournemouth. As he previously indicated, his capacity to interchange roles with attacking midfielders like Iliman Ndiaye and Charly Alcaraz provides Moyes with numerous tactical possibilities, suggesting further adjustments in the forward line.
Upfront, the spotlight intensifies on the striker position, where Beto has struggled to convert chances despite his industrious efforts against the East London outfit. This opens the door for new signing Thierno Barry, whose £27 million switch from Villarreal carries significant expectations. Barry is now keenly seeking his inaugural start, especially given David Moyes’ candid post-match admission: “I think our attacking play has been really poor,” a clear signal of the urgent need for a more potent offensive threat.
These anticipated lineup changes reflect David Moyes’ strategic intent to optimize Everton’s performance and address observed deficiencies. The final Premier League Summer Series game serves not merely as a friendly but as a crucial testing ground for tactical innovations and player combinations. The decisions made will profoundly influence the team’s momentum and confidence as they transition from pre-season preparations to the rigorous demands of the upcoming Premier League campaign, seeking to establish a strong foundation early on.
