In preparation for today’s pre-season friendly against Preston North End, Sean Dyche has finalized his Everton starting lineup, which includes some intriguing new additions and returning players. Jesper Lindstrom, the team’s recent signing on a season-long loan from Napoli, is set to make his debut after overcoming a minor thigh issue that kept him out of the previous match against Coventry City. Lindstrom will be taking on the role of No.10, supporting striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin. This lineup choice sees a change from the previous match, where Iliman Nidaye played in a similar position.
The defensive line for Everton will be boosted by the return of James Tarkowski, who has recovered from a glute issue to captain the team. Vitalii Mykolenko, who has been sidelined with ankle ligament damage, will also be making his first appearance of the summer. Additionally, midfield dynamo Idrissa Gana Gueye is back in the mix after missing the past two friendlies.
However, the squad will be missing the presence of James Garner, Abdoulaye Doucoure, and Seamus Coleman for this match, with Jarrad Branthwaite, Youssef Chermiti, and Nathan Patterson still unavailable. On a positive note, there is exciting talent on the bench in the form of Jake O’Brien, who recently joined Everton from Lyon for a significant fee of £17 million.
Looking ahead, Everton fans can anticipate the return of Jordan Pickford next week, following his successful run with England in the Euro 2024 final. The lineup for today’s match features Virginia, Young, Tarkowski, Keane, Mykolenko, Gana, Iroegbunam, Harrison, McNeil, Lindstrom, and Calvert-Lewin. Substitutes ready to make an impact include Crellin, Tyrer, Holgate, Ndiaye, Maupay, Beto, O’Brien, Armstrong, Campbell, Dixon, and Metcalfe. The stage is set for an exciting and competitive friendly as Everton continue their pre-season preparations.
