The Everton fans down in the Transfer Tavern cannot wait to see how their team lines up on the opening day of the new season.
The Toffees have a tough home game against Mark Hughes’ Stoke side. The Potters have been cash-cautious this summer, something that cannot be said about Ronald Koeman’s Everton.
The Merseysiders have splashed out on seven players so far, including former boyhood Blue Wayne Rooney.
Koeman has a number of big calls to make as to what formation to play and which personnel to utilise.
The Everton boss has adopted both four and five at the back in pre-season and may still be undecided on how to set up his team.
We’ve been running the rule over his options and believe 3-4-1-2, with Rooney and Sandro Ramirez leading the line makes for the most promising line up.
So without further adieu, take a look at the midfield FIVE who must start against Stoke….
LWB – LEIGHTON BAINES
The England international did not have the best of season’s last term, with minor injuries problems restraining him from a solid run in the side.
However, the set-piece and penalty master still possesses the quality and the intelligence to be a top player this season.
CM – MORGAN SCHNEIDERLIN
The former Manchester United midfielder was unlucky not to be afforded more opportunities at Old Trafford.
Since his move to Everton, Schneiderlin has been a mainstay in Koeman’s side and appears to be enjoying regular first-team football again.
CM – IDRISSA GUEYE
He’s highly rated at Everton, but many pundits and football people continue to ignore Idrissa Gueye’s talent. Perhaps not the easiest on the eye, but the Senegalese midfielder is so important in keeping Everton’s defence in check.
CAM – DAVY KLAASSEN
Ronald Koeman has admitted that the Dutchman will need time to settle in the Premier League. The former Ajax midfielder endured a slow pre-season, but has undeniable talent.
Klaassen will be provided with the opportunity to show his manager he can make an impact from the outset.
RWB – TOM DAVIES
Unfortunately, there’s no space for the youngster in the middle of the park in this formation. Davies emerged as a superb newcomer to the Toffees last season after making the step up from the academy.
The midfielder will have to prove his versatility at right-wing-back, but his youthful exuberance should see him through.
