Everton face a tactical puzzle for tonight's Premier League opener against Leeds United at Elland Road, with defensive injuries forcing David Moyes to reshape his team around new signings. The 8pm kick-off marks the Blues' first competitive match under new owners The Friedkin Group.
Star centre-back Jarrad Branthwaite remains unavailable due to injury, while left-back Vitalii Mykolenko's fitness status creates additional uncertainty. Jack Grealish could make his Everton debut after joining on loan from Manchester City, though questions remain over his match fitness.
Formation dilemma emerges
The defensive crisis has prompted tactical discussions about whether Everton should abandon their preferred flat back four system. A wing-back formation using James Tarkowski, Michael Keane and Jake O'Brien in a three-man defence could provide extra protection while accommodating the club's attacking options.
This pragmatic approach would see Dwight McNeil and Seamus Coleman operating as wing-backs, offering defensive stability while maintaining attacking threat. The system would allow Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall to operate as the third central midfielder alongside James Garner and Idrissa Gueye, with freedom to support Iliman Ndiaye behind striker Beto.
Alternative tactical approaches favour keeping Carlos Alcaraz in the starting lineup rather than risking Grealish from the beginning, recognising that the England international may need more time to reach match fitness.
Grealish motivation factor
Grealish's limited game time at Manchester City last season provides significant motivation for his Everton move. The winger managed only 715 Premier League minutes for the champions, according to detailed analysis, giving him strong incentive to revive his career at Goodison Park.
Moyes has cited Jesse Lingard's successful West Ham loan spell as a template for how Grealish could rediscover his form. The comparison suggests Everton believe they can unlock the best version of a player who struggled for regular opportunities at the Etihad Stadium.
Calvert-Lewin subplot adds intrigue
Former Everton striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin could make his Leeds debut against his old club after joining on a free transfer this summer. The England international's potential appearance adds emotional weight to the encounter for both sets of supporters.
Leeds enter as slight betting favourites despite their newly-promoted status, with both teams expected to score in what markets suggest could be a high-scoring affair. The Whites will be desperate to make a strong impression in their return to the Premier League.
Everton's seven summer signings demonstrate The Friedkin Group's ambition, though Moyes acknowledges certain positions remain unfilled before the transfer window closes on September 1. The right-back and right-wing positions have been identified as particular areas requiring attention.
Sources used: "Liverpool Echo", "Mirror" Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.
