Everton host Crystal Palace at Goodison Park on Friday evening.
Everton manager Ronald Koeman
With Leighton Baines out injured, Everton should consider switching to back three for the visit of Crystal Palace.
The full-back was missing last weekend as the Blues were beaten by Bournemouth at the Vitality Stadium.
Bryan Oviedo came into the side in his absence but the Costa Rican struggled against the Cherries wide players throughout the game.
He is not likely to come in for an easier evening on Friday against the likes of Wilfried Zaha and Andros Townsend.
Everton’s Bryan Oviedo is booked by referee Robert Madley
Changing to a back three would allow Oviedo to play in a more comfortable wing back role and also give him the added cover of another defender.
It would also give Everton that added cover at centre back to deal with the aerial presence of Christian Benteke.
Further up the pitch, adding a centre back would also give the wide players, likely to be Yannick Bolasie and Kevin Mirallas, the freedom to focus on their attacking game without the burden of defending.
That could be particularly useful in helping striker Romelu Lukaku, who was isolated in the loss to Bournemouth.
Everton’s Romelu Lukaku in action with Bournemouth’s Steve Cook
Of course, the change of formation would mean someone missing out, likely Ross Barkley. That would be a shame but given his recent form it may be a smart move.
It is something for Ronald Koeman to consider but it could be a smart move that would give his team the best chance of securing all three points against the in-from Eagles.
Everton manager Ronald Koeman
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