Everton v Southampton predicted XI: Moyes to drop Doucoure amid contract talks, 3 changes
Everton will bid an emotional farewell to Goodison Park on Sunday (18 May), as they face already relegated Southampton.
The Toffees sit 13th in the Premier League, and have nothing left to play for this season, but will be eager to give their home the send-off it deserves.
David Moyes went on a nine-game unbeaten run immediately after being appointed, but his side’s form has dropped off towards the end of the campaign.
It is set to be a summer of change on the blue side of Merseyside, with Moyes expecting to be backed by the Friedkin Group, who took control of the club at the end of last year.
Moyes to make three changes for Goodison farewell
Ashley Young will not be at Everton next season, after it was announced that the veteran full-back has not been offered a new contract by the club, but the 39-year-old will likely bid farewell to the Toffees’ home fans with a start.
Jake O’Brien is back from injury and available to play, meaning he could come in for Michael Keane, despite the ex-Burnley man’s excellent performance against Fulham.
James Garner and Idrissa Gueye have been regulars in the centre of the Toffees’ midfield and Dwight McNeil could come in for Jack Harrison on the right wing.
Everton are in contract talks with Abdoulaye Doucoure, and Moyes may opt for Iliman Ndiaye to replace the midfielder, in behind Beto.
Everton bid farewell to Goodison Park
Football Insider Verdict
It will be a special day for Everton fans, as they leave their home of 133 years, and make the move to a brand new stadium.
The ground will remain in use however, with Goodison Park set to host Everton Women’s games from next season.
Toffees fans will hope that their move to a new ground will kickstart an upwards trend for the club, who have circled around the relegation zone for the past few seasons.
It will be a summer of change at Everton, as many out-of-contract players are allowed to leave and new blood is brought through.
Supporters of the Merseyside club will be hoping that Moyes can bring in some young talent, and inspire his side to a top-half finish next season.
Based on his first spell in charge of the club, Everton fans will be confident that he can take them to new heights as he did during the noughties.