Everton line-ups as Beto and Dominic Calvert-Lewin decisions made for Aston Villa
Joe Thomas: There are so many different ways to approach tonight’s game, but in reality the squad doesn’t really offer much opportunity to experiment. The league is the priority, undoubtedly, but few want to see a cup competition put completely to one side given this club’s rich heritage and long wait for success. It would also be useful to build on the momentum of the Brentford game going into Luton then Bournemouth.
I suspect there will be changes but there isn’t a huge amount of depth and, with several of the most talented academy players having left on permanent or loan deals, it could be a gamble to leave those who remain exposed. Nathan Patterson and Michael Keane for Ashley Young and James Tarkowski feel like obvious changes to me.
I would give Garner the opportunity to start in middle, in place of Onana, and give Dobbin a start out wide and bring back Danjuma too - as much to give McNeil a break as he builds on his return. If Jack Harrison could be involved then that would be significant. I think this is the best opportunity to give Joao Virginia a start - it has been years since he made a senior competitive appearance for Everton and providing such a chance is important in case he is called upon for the league. Beyond that, I would start Beto to continue his development in English football, though I would be looking to bring Chermiti on when possible.
My team (4-5-1): Virginia; Mykolenko, Branthwaite, Keane, Patterson; Danjuma, Gueye, Doucoure, Garner, Dobbin; Beto.
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