Jordan Pickford (GK) - After a really encouraging performance in the Merseyside derby last weekend, it’s now about consistency for Jordan Pickford. He needs to build on performances like this and cut out the mistakes that have cost us this season. He’s nailed down the number one spot since returning from his injury so he’ll start here.
Seamus Coleman (RB) - Another player who’s been heavily criticised that put in a great performance on Saturday. I’ve been hesitant when Coleman has played against the likes of West Ham, Newcastle and Fulham as he’s often left us exposed at right-back given the way he likes to get forward. But I’m gonna go with him here, hoping he too can build on his previous performance.
Ben Godfrey (CB) - Starting to get a run in his more natural position at centre back and he looks more and more comfortable with every game. He’s really started to settle into this Everton side after getting a consistent run in one position. His pace at the back is always an asset and if the likes of Redmond and Djenepo play for Southampton it will be vital once again.
Michael Keane (CB) - Keane was brilliant against Liverpool, he really looked back to his best and let’s hope that continues on Monday night. He’s a real threat in the opposition box and his aerial ability will be a big boost in our own box as well.
Lucas Digne (LB) - This should be a game where Digne can get forward and find a lot of joy. The midfielders in the side should be able to cover for him in the event of a counter attack. But his ability going forward to create chances is so important for us.
Tom Davies (CM) - Tom has been in very good form of late and his performance at Anfield typified that. He’s doing all the basics right now, nothing flashy he just does his job. It is so important for this side to have an anchor in midfield to move the ball and provide cover on the turnover.
Allan (CM) - Allan has been a part of the matchday squad for two weeks now and is yet to feature. I think that we will finally see him return in this one, he’s such an important player for us because of his tenacity in midfield. With Davies occupying a deeper role it will allow him to play higher, meaning he can put pressure on Southampton’s midfield in more dangerous areas.
Abdoulaye Doucouré (CM) - There are probably none more grateful for a week off than Doucouré, it was another tireless display against Liverpool at the weekend and I expect him to continue here. He’s a machine in the middle of the park and his power will no doubt cause Southampton problems.
James Rodríguez (RW) - Overall he had a very quiet game against Liverpool, but he popped up in the moment that mattered. This is a game where he will have more room to operate, even though I don’t expect Everton to go full tilt at Southampton, James will see a lot more of the ball in this one than he did in the derby. He’ll certainly be a key component in creating opportunities in the game with the way he drifts in from the right wing and picks up pockets of space.
Dominic Calvert-Lewin (ST) - He had a a big impact off the bench at Anfield, he was dominant in the air and won the match clinching penalty. No doubt he’ll come back into the starting XI here, he’ll be up against a strong opponent in Jannik Vestergaard but I’m sure he will relish the battle with him. Hopefully he can get himself back amongst the goals.
Richarlison (LW) - One of the most difficult tasks when picking a starting XI is where to play Richarlison. So much of the season we’ve seen him struggle on the left wing, but since he’s had a spell up front he’s looked back to his best. Ultimately, he can’t replicate what Calvert-Lewin gives us up top, I expect him to move back on to the left in this one, where hopefully he can continue his form and look to stretch Southampton.
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