4-2-3-1: Everton’s only way past Arsenal

TFF was waxing lyrical about Ronald Koeman at the start of the season. We have been berated in some quarters for suggesting that he was one of the best signings of the summer.

Managers’ stock can of course swing violently from job to job as circumstances and budgets change when a coach moves clubs.

But we are still fully behind the Dutchman and still believe that he will progress Everton.

It’s not as if it’s an easy job to get into the top four with a budget that is dwarfed by the elite sides.

Yet Everton are only 4 points behind Manchester United, who have spent £150m and brought Jose Mourinho to the club in the summer.

But a win against Arsenal would be just what the doctor ordered. Everton fans need to be in full voice for this one because The Toffees can still beat anyone on their day.

They grabbed a point against a much improving Manchester United side and weren’t outclassed in that game. While Arsenal are a more complete side than United right now, they are still perhaps easier to unsettle.

And a quick start should see Everton go toe to toe with The Gunners in what looks like the game of the week.

Bolasie and Besic are obviously out long-term but Everton can put out a strong side and the result of this game is anything but a foregone conclusion.

Here is the XI that TFF would put out.

Everton fans: would you start Barkley?