After a very strong start to the season saw the Everton fans in the Transfer Tavern believing they could be set for a Champions League challenge, things have stalled of late. 

Over the course of the summer, the Ronald Koeman rebuild never truly got going despite the huge amount of investment brought into the club by their wealthy new backers.

So, the Toffees in the Tavern are expecting a raft of changes over the course of the next few transfer windows as the Dutchman’s project begins to take shape on Merseyside.

While there’s no doubt excitement emanating out of Goodison Park right now, some of the drinkers are hoping the former Southampton coach sticks with some of their favourites currently at the club.

There’s bound to be a number of changes at the club over the next few months, though here are TWO Everton players Koeman simply must not axe in January.

James McCarthy

Though summer signing Idrissa Gueye is proving imperious in midfield right now and keeping him out of the side, James McCarthy is surely too much of an asset to sell.

The Republic of Ireland international has been linked with a move to Newcastle United, though is a top level performer and provides Koeman with strength and depth.

Ramiro Funes Mori

The arrival of Ashley Williams has largely kept Ramiro Funes Mori out of the side, with the Argentine proving a hot-headed customer at times last season.

Still, the 25-year-old has the makings of a classy defender, and alongside a centre-half, the former River Plate man can develop into a seriously good option at the back.