Brigit Adongo
Everton were on a great run in the first few games this season, but something hasn’t been going right for a while now, and after three consecutive defeats, they got a point out of a possible twelve thanks to this weekend’s draw against Tottenham.
Among the things giving Rafa Benitez constant headaches recently were injuries and returning players struggling for form. After the international break, his midfield, which is currently problematic, is expected to get a major boost when some players return.
But with that, there seems to be another headache in store for Benitez as he will have to decide who among his current starters waits for a chance from the bench. Fabian Delph has had two great games, but with Allan in form and Doucoure likely to return, the 31-year old could have it tough.
After ten weeks out, Delph is struggling for form despite the satisfactory displays he has shown lately, so if another central midfielder returns, Benitez will sweat choosing between them and Delph, or Gordon.
Another difficult choice comes in the centre-back position. With Mina having two weeks to prepare for a return and the anticipation fans have for seeing him play, the Blues manager must decide whether to get fresh legs (Mina) or go with Keane, who was brilliant against Spurs.
Whoever comes back and whichever decision Rafa makes, though, they have a mountain to climb when they face second-paced City after the international break, a game they need to win.
