Everton will host Southampton in the third round of the Carabao Cup, with both teams yet to secure a point in the Premier League this season. This match could offer a glimpse into how Sean Dyche’s Everton might fare in the months ahead. Here’s a look at Everton’s predicted lineup for the 7:45 pm kickoff on September 17.

Everton Predicted Lineup to Host Southampton in the Carabao Cup

How Everton Have Lined Up
Sean Dyche has relied on the familiar centre-back pairing of Michael Keane and James Tarkowski in all four Premier League matches so far. In Everton’s first Carabao Cup match, new signing Jake O’Brien partnered with Keane. Jordan Pickford and Vitaliy Mykolenko have been ever-present in goal and at left-back, respectively, while the right-back position has seen rotation between Ashley Young, Seamus Coleman, and Roman Dixon.

In midfield, Tim Iroegbunam has been paired with Idrissa Gueye in the league, while James Garner stepped in during the cup tie. Dwight McNeil has shifted to a central attacking midfielder role, with Iliman Ndiaye taking his place on the left wing. Jack Harrison has been Dyche’s preferred choice on the right in the Premier League, while Jesper Lindstrom started on the right in the cup against Doncaster Rovers.

Up front, Dominic Calvert-Lewin continues to lead the line, scoring in his last two matches. Portuguese striker Beto has often come off the bench but did start the cup tie.

Everton’s Recent Form and Tactics
Everton have endured a tough start to the season, sitting at the bottom of the Premier League with no points and 13 goals conceded in four matches — the worst defensive record in the league. Southampton, meanwhile, have struggled offensively, managing just one goal so far.

The clash will showcase two contrasting styles of play. Dyche’s 4-2-3-1 system focuses on pressing and long-ball tactics, with Everton ranking second in the league for combined tackles and interceptions. In contrast, Southampton are second in pass attempts but 19th in defensive metrics, highlighting their possession-based but vulnerable approach.

Everton Injuries to Consider vs Southampton
Jarrad Branthwaite and Nathan Patterson have returned to training but are not expected to feature in this match. Seamus Coleman, who missed the weekend’s match due to a knock picked up on international duty, could be fit enough to play in this cup tie.

Everton Predicted Line Up

GK: Jordan Pickford

RB: Seamus Coleman

CB: Jake O’Brien

CB: James Tarkowski

LB: Vitaliy Mykolenko

CM: James Garner

CM: Tim Iroegbunam

CAM: Dwight McNeil

LM: Iliman Ndiaye

RM: Jesper Lindstrom

ST: Beto

GET MORE NEWS HERE ON LIFESTYLEROOM.NET